Joints, joint actions, ligaments and tendons

Overview

Synovial joints and their parts, cartilage, ligaments and tendons, hinge and ball and socket joints, and flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, rotation, circumduction, plantar flexion and dorsiflexion.

What you need to know

Answer each one before you reveal it.

Questions from this subtopic

Each one with the model answer underneath.

1. 1

   Define the term synovial joint.

   Model answer

   A synovial joint is a freely movable joint where the bones meet inside a fluid-filled capsule. The knee, hip and shoulder are synovial joints.

2. 2

   What does the synovial membrane do?

   Model answer

   The synovial membrane lines the joint capsule and releases synovial fluid into the joint.

3. 3

   How does synovial fluid help to prevent injury?

   Model answer

   Synovial fluid lubricates the joint so the bones move smoothly. Less friction means less wear on the joint surfaces.

4. 4

   What is the joint capsule, and how does it help to prevent injury?

   Model answer

   The joint capsule is a tough, fibrous sac surrounding the joint. The capsule holds the bones together and protects the joint.

5. 5

   What are bursae, and how do they reduce the risk of injury?

   Model answer

   Bursae are small fluid-filled sacs between bones and tendons or ligaments. Bursae cushion the joint and reduce friction as it moves.

6. 6

   How does cartilage protect a joint?

   Model answer

   Cartilage covers the ends of the bones and stops them rubbing together. Cartilage also absorbs shock, such as on landing from a jump.

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