The hand’s interphalangeal joints are the hinge joints that allow flexion in the direction of the palm between the finger phalanges. Introduction The hand’s interphalangeal joints are synovial hinge joints connecting the proximal, middle, and distal phalanges. These joints can be categorized into digits 2–5 according to the bones involved. The middle and distal phalanges…
Three intervertebral joints connect each neighboring vertebra from the axis to the sacrum: two between the facets of adjacent vertebral arches and one between the vertebral bodies (zygapophysial joints, also known as facet joints). Introduction The intervertebral joints join the vertebrae of the vertebral column which are closely nearby. Three distinct joints make up each intervertebral joint: two zygapophyseal (facet) joints and one intervertebral disc joint (intervertebral symphysis). Articular surfaces The intervertebral symphyses, or intervertebral disc joints, go from the C2 to the S1 vertebral levels. Adjacent vertebral…
The proximal radioulnar articulation, sometimes referred to as the proximal radioulnar joint (PRUJ), is a synovial pivot joint that occurs between the ring created by the annular ligament and the radial notch of the ulna and the circumference of the radius head. Introduction A synovial joint that joins the proximal ends of the radius and…
The facet joints, which are a group of synovial, plane joints between the articular processes of two neighboring vertebrae, are also known as zygapophysial joints, zygapophyseal, apophyseal, or Z-joints. Each spinal motion segment has two facet joints, and the recurrent meningeal nerves innervate each facet joint. Introduction This synovial connection, called the apophyseal or zygapophyseal…
The atlantoaxial joint is in the upper neck region between the first and second cervical vertebrae or the atlas and axis bones. The joint is essential. The synovial joint known as the atlantoaxial joint is categorized as a uniaxial pivot joint. It is classified as a pivot joint since it comprises a centrally located bony…
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects the jawbone (mandible) to the skull (temporal bone) on both sides of the face. It allows movements like chewing, speaking, and yawning. The joint consists of bones, cartilage, muscles, and a disc that cushions movements. Dysfunction in the TMJ can lead to pain, clicking sounds, or restricted jaw movement. Introduction…
The sternocostal joints are the articulations between the sternum (breastbone) and the costal cartilages of the ribs. These joints are classified as synovial plane joints, except for the first sternocostal joint, which is a cartilaginous joint (synchondrosis). They play a key role in the mechanics of breathing, allowing slight movements of the ribs during inspiration…
The atlanto-occipital joint is the articulation between the atlas (C1 vertebra) and the occipital bone of the skull. It is a synovial joint that allows for nodding movements of the head, such as flexion (“yes” motion) and slight lateral tilting. This joint is stabilized by ligaments, including the anterior and posterior atlanto-occipital membranes, and plays…
The carpometacarpal (CMC) joints are the articulations that connect the hand’s carpal (carpals) and metacarpal (metacarpals) bones. Five carpometacarpal joints are known to exist, with the thumb’s carpometacarpal joint—also referred to as the trapeziometacarpal joint—being the most specialized and flexible. Introduction The proximal bases of the five metacarpal bones and the distal row of carpal…
The sternoclavicular (SC) joint is a synovial joint that connects the sternum (breastbone) to the clavicle (collarbone). It is one of the major joints in the shoulder girdle and plays a vital role in shoulder movement and stability. The manubrium of the sternum and the medial side of the clavicle articulates to produce the Sternoclavicular…
