In generic terms, a joint is the union between two elements that makes the movement of both possible. This word is widely used in anatomical terms, to define the union between two or more bones, between a bone and a bone tissue, or between a cartilage.
The function of the joints in the human body is to form a point of attachment in the skeleton that allows it to generate movement more easily and will add more elasticity to the body. A joint is made up of various elements:
Cartilage: It is a type of lining found at the ends of bones. This membrane fulfills the role of connector, avoiding and reducing friction caused by movements.
Synovial membrane: This membrane contains a viscous, colorless fluid that lubricates and protects the joint.
Ligaments: they are connective and elastic tissues that serve to protect the joint and limit its movements.
Tendons: like ligaments, tendons are connective tissues, located on the side of the joint; They are located next to the muscle, in order to exercise control in the movements.
Bursa: they are a kind of balls filled with liquid, whose function is to cushion the friction in a joint. They are located in the bones and ligaments.
Meniscus: found in the knees and other joints, they are characterized by their crescent shape.
The joints are divided according to their mobility or functionality:
Mobile joints: they are the most numerous and with the greatest mobility within the body. According to their movement they are subdivided into:
Trochlear: facilitate the execution of flexion and extension movements. Eg: fingers and elbow.
Arthrodias: facilitate movement movements.
Pivot: facilitates lateral and medial rotation. Eg the neck joints.
Spherical: due to their rounded shape, they present greater ease of movement. Eg the hip joints.
Reciprocal lace: they are characterized by presenting a structure similar to that of a saddle. Eg the thumb joint.
Cartilaginous joints (semi-mobile): this class of joints are united by a flexible cartilage, with little mobility. For example, the union of the bones of the spine.
Synarthrosis or immobile joints: they are joints that are united by the development of the bone, they are characterized by being rigid and lacking mobility. Eg the bones of the nose and skull.
The joints can present various disorders, the most common being arthritis, which consists of inflammation of the joints and osteoarthritis caused by the wear and tear of cartilage. The medical specialty that is responsible for the study and treatment of the joints is called arthrology.
