Structural and Functional Classifications
in Anatomy Exam Questions With
Verified And Outlined Answers
Joints (articulations)
Where two bones connect
Structural classification of joints
Classified based on joint anatomy
Functional classification of joints
Classified based on range of motion
Fibrous joints
Held together by dense fibrous connective tissue or a fibrous ligament
Suture
Joint between the bones of the skull
Gomphosis
Joint between a tooth and its bony socket
Syndesmosis
Bones connected by a ligament
Cartilaginous joints
Held together by cartilage
Synchondrosis
, Rigid cartilaginous connection between two bones
Symphysis
Bones connected by a pad of fibrocartilage
Bony joints
Rigid ossified joint
Synostosis
Two bones fuse and the boundary between them disappears
Synovial joints
Enclosed by a capsule filled with synovial fluid
Synarthrosis
Immovable joint
Amphiarthrosis
Slightly movable joint
Diarthrosis
Freely movable joint
Synovial fluid
Fills the joint cavity from the synovial membrane
Articular cartilage
Covers articulating surfaces and prevents direct contact between bones
Joint capsule (articular capsule)
Surrounded by joint capsule continuous with periosteum
Primary functions of synovial fluid