Joints

Muscles bring about movement at a [blank_start]joint[blank_end]; most movements are produced by the co-ordinated action of [blank_start]several[blank_end] muscles. Muscles [blank_start]shorten[blank_end], pulling on the bone and so moving the joint. Muscles can only [blank_start]pull[blank_end], they can't [blank_start]push[blank_end], so at least [blank_start]two[blank_end] muscles are needed to move a bone to and fro. A pair of muscles that work in this way are described as [blank_start]antagonistic[blank_end]. A muscle that contracts to cause [blank_start]extension[blank_end] of a joint is called an [blank_start]extensor[blank_end]; the corresponding [blank_start]flexor[blank_end] muscle contracts to reverse the movement.

Which of the following are examples of synovial joints?

[blank_start]Synovial[blank_end] joints; the bones that articulate (move) in the joint are separated by a cavity filled with [blank_start]synovial fluid[blank_end], which enables them to move freely. They all have the same basic structure.

Label the synovial joint:

Which part of the joint joins bone to bone and is strong and flexible, allowing control of the amount of movement in the joint?

Which part of the joint joins muscle to bone, enabling the muscle to power joint movement?

the fibrous capsule secretes synovial fluid

What are the functions of cartilage?

Which component of the joint acts as a lubricant, reducing friction between cartilage?

What is the function of the pad of cartilage?

What is the function of the fibrous capsule?

Label the human knee joint: