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Joints, also known as articulations, are connections between bones that allow for varying degrees of movement and stability. Understanding joints is critical in learning how the body moves and functions.

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Joints can be classified by both their movement (functional) and their structure (how bones connect). Functional: synarthroses (immovable), amphiarthroses (slightly movable), diarthroses (freely movable). Structural: fibrous, cartilaginous, and synovial joints.

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Articulation, ligament, synovial fluid, joint capsule, cartilage: These are essential terms related to joint anatomy. Mastering these will help you better understand each type of joint structure.

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Fibrous joints are connected by dense connective tissue and allow minimal to no movement. These joints provide stability, such as those found in the sutures of the skull.

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There are three subtypes: sutures (in the skull), syndesmoses (between radius and ulna), and gomphoses (teeth in sockets). Each serves a specialized role in stability versus slight movement.

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Clinical Connection: Fontanelles in Infants

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Clinical Connection: Fontanelles in Infants

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Infant skulls contain flexible areas called fontanelles - unossified sutures that allow for growth and passage through the birth canal. These fuse over time in development.

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Cartilaginous joints are connected by cartilage and allow more movement than fibrous joints, but less than synovial joints. Examples include the intervertebral discs and the pubic symphysis.

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Synchondroses (hyaline cartilage, e.g., epiphyseal plates in children) are mostly immovable. Symphyses (fibrocartilage, e.g., intervertebral discs) are slightly movable, offering both strength and flexibility.

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A herniated disc occurs when the intervertebral fibrocartilage slips out of place, impinging on nerves and causing pain. This is a common issue related to cartilaginous joints.

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Synovial joints are the most movable type of joint in the body. They feature a synovial cavity containing lubricating fluid, articular cartilage, a capsule, and supporting ligaments.

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Key features include articular cartilage, a synovial membrane, synovial fluid, and an enclosing joint (articular) capsule. This structure allows for smooth, controlled movement.

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There are six major types: hinge (elbow), pivot (atlas/axis), ball-and-socket (shoulder, hip), saddle (thumb), condyloid (wrist), and plane (intercarpal). Each permits different movements.

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Sprains, dislocations (luxations), and arthritis are typical issues affecting synovial joints due to their high range of mobility.