Joints and Types
A joint is a point of connection between two or more bones, and they play a vital role in allowing the movement of the skeleton. There are four primary types of joints, classified based on the type of movement they permit:
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Ball and Socket Joints: These allow free movement in multiple directions. Examples include the shoulder and hip joints. The spherical head of one bone fits into a rounded socket of another, providing a wide range of motion.
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Hinge Joints: They enable movement in one plane, akin to a door hinge. Common examples are the elbow and knee joints. These joints allow flexion and extension but do not permit side-to-side motion.
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Pivot Joints: These types allow rotational movements. An example is the pivot joint between the atlas and axis vertebrae in the neck, enabling the head to rotate.
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Fixed/Immovable Joints: As the name suggests, these joints do not permit any movement. An example is the joints between skull bones, which are fused together to protect the brain.
Understanding these different types of joints helps clarify how our skeleton facilitates movement and supports various physical activities.