Types of joints

Flowchart nodes

• Joint: A joint is the connection made between bones in the body which link the skeletal system into a functional whole. They are constructed to allow for different degrees and type of movement. 

• Immoveable Joint (Fibrous):  Immovable or fibrous joints are those that do not allow movement (or allow for only very slight movement) at joint locations. Bones at these joints have no joint cavity and are held together structurally by thick fibrous connective tissue, usually collagen. These joints are important for stability and protection. 

• Slightly moveable joints (Cartilaginous): Slightly movable joints permit some movement but provide less stability than immovable joints. These joints can be structurally classified as cartilaginous joints, as bones are connected by cartilage at the joints. Cartilage is a tough, elastic connective tissue that helps to reduce friction between bones.

• Moveable joints (Synovial): Freely movable joints are classified structurally as synovial joints. Unlike fibrous and cartilaginous joints, synovial joints have a joint cavity (fluid-filled space) between connecting bones. Synovial joints allow for greater mobility but are less stable than fibrous and cartilaginous joints. Examples of synovial joints include joints in the wrist, elbow, knees, shoulders, and hip.

• - Stationary and can't move - The bones are fused together (no joint activity) - Stability and protection

• - Allows some movement  - Connected by cartilage

• -  Allows to move in all directions

• Cranium

• Vertebrae

• Sternum

• Knee

• Shoulder

• Hip