BIOL 237

Study Guide

Arthrology

1. Describe the classification of joints according to structure. Include: fibrous, cartilaginous and synovial joints and describe and recognize subcategories and examples of each type. Terms: sutures, syndesmoses, gomphoses, synchondroses, symphyses, periodontal ligament.

2. Describe the classification of joints according to function (movement) and describe or recognize examples of each type. Include: synarthroses, amphiarthroses and diarthroses. Relate these joint types to the classification in #1.

3. Describe the structure of synovial joints and relate this structure to their function.

Terms: articular cartilage, synovial cavity, articular capsule, synovial membrane, synovial fluid, weeping lubrication, reinforcing ligaments (intra-capsular or intrinsic, extra-capsular), fatty pads, menisci.

4. Identify the types of synovial joints with examples of each and describe the movements which can occur at each type. Include: gliding, hinge, pivot, condyloid (ellipsoid), saddle, ball-and-socket; movements at synovial joints: gliding, extension, flexion, hyperextension, adduction, abduction, circumduction, rotation, inversion, eversion, plantar flexion, dorsiflexion, protraction, retraction, elevation, depression, supination, pronation. Terms: non-axial movements, uniaxial movement, biaxial movement , multi-axial movement.

5. Distinguish between synovial joint membranes and bursae and identify their location and function.

6. Compare the shoulder and hip joints with respect to strength and flexibility, and relate these characteristics to structural elements.  Include: glenoid labrum, humeral ligaments, rotator cuff, acetabular labrum, femoral ligaments, ligamentum teres.

7. Identify the structural characteristics of the knee joint and elbow joint which are important to their function.  Include: patella, femoropatellar joint, tibiofemoral joint, menisci, patellar ligament (tendon), lateral and medial collateral ligaments, lateral and medial patellar retinacula, anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments.

8. Identify and compare the attachments and functions of the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments. Term: intercondylar eminence, intercondylar notch.

9. Describe the etiology of conditions/diseases related to joints: sprain, strain, bursitis, luxation, subluxation, arthritis (gouty, osteo-, rheumatoid).