Facts About Joint – Structure, and Functions

The human body is an interesting structure with a group of cells and tissues, with similar structure and functions, which work coordinately to carry out various metabolic functions. Along with the cells and tissues, the human body is also composed of bones and muscles. Each and every single part of our body has its own importance with the specialized functions.

In this article, let’s learn about the structure, types and functions of joints along with some unknown and interesting facts.

What are the Joints?

According to human anatomy, the joints can be simply defined as the internal connection between the two bones, which are directly linked to the skeletal system. These joints are the primary means for movement and locomotion in all living organisms. 

Depends on the structure and functions of the joints, they are classified into different types. 

Based on their structure, the classification of joints are:

1. Fibrous Joints.
2. Synovial Joints.
3. Cartilaginous Joints.

Based on their specialized functions, the classification of joints are:

1.  Hinge Joints.
2.  Saddle Joints.
3. Gliding Joints.
4.  Pivotal joints.
5.  Condyloid Joints.
6. Ball and Socket Joints.

Ten Interesting Facts about the Joints

Along with the structure and functions, there are few unknown facts about the joints, which we are not aware of. Below are a few facts about the joints.

1. Joints do not live in a vacuum.
2. Joints are the parts, where two bones meet each other.
3. The joint of the skull is an example of a non-motile joint.
4. The hyoid is the only bone, which is not connected to another bone in the body.
5. Ball and socket joints help in the movement of the arms and legs in different directions.
6. The bones of wrists and ankles are an example of Gliding joints, which move by gliding against each other.
7. Ankle, elbows, and knee joints are examples of hinge joints, which enables movement only back and forth wards.
8. The most movable type of joint is the Ball and socket joints. Hip and shoulder joints are an example of Ball and socket joints.
9. Most of our joints create popping or cracking noise. This is mainly caused when the joint capsule gets stretched out and releases a gas that is built up in the fluid that cushions the joint.
10. Arthritis is an inflammation in the joints, which results in swellings, pain, and stiffness. This type of joint disorder can also be caused by viral infections or can also be an autoimmune disorder.

Joints are an amazing part of the human body. They are involved in performing various daily tasks such as walking, climbing the stairs, sitting, jumping, running, dancing, writing, twisting, swimming, rotating our head, neck, arms, wrists, feet, knees and a lot more. It performs major functions by helping us in locomotion and movements. Therefore, we need to take care of the joints by regular physical activities, nutritious food and by maintaining a  healthy weight and balanced diet.

These were some of the information and interesting facts about the joints in the human body. For more facts and other related information, students can visit our website at BYJU’S and can also enjoy learning more in detail about human anatomy by subscribing to the youtube video channel.