The study of joint anatomy is essential for understanding movement, stability, and the functional relationships between bones. Given the range of joints within the human body, using a consistent method to learn their features is beneficial. For more detail on the classification, structure, and function of joints, see our joint anatomy section. In this article, a five-part framework for describing joints will be outlined – site, type, types of joint, actions, and range of motion. This structure can be applied to any joint and forms the basis for effective anatomical learning. Department of Anatomy, University of East Anglia A 5-part framework for learning the anatomy of joints Pro Feature - 3D Model You've Discovered a Pro Feature Access our 3D Model Library Explore, cut, dissect, annotate and manipulate our 3D models to visualise anatomy in a dynamic, interactive way. Learn More Site The site refers to the anatomical location of the joint within the body. This provides context for the bones it connects and the movements it permits. Examples: The elbow joint lies between the arm and forearm. The hip joint lies between the trunk and thigh. The talocrural joint lies between the leg and foot. Type The type identifies the structural classification of the joint. Joints can be fibrous, cartilaginous, or synovial based on the tissue uniting the bones. Examples: The sutures of the skull are fibrous joints (bones joined by dense connective tissue). The intervertebral discs form cartilaginous joints (bones united by cartilage). The elbow joint is a synovial joint (bones separated by a fluid-filled cavity). Types of Synovial Joint If a joint is synovial, it can be further classified by its shape and permitted movements. This determines the joint’s functional capabilities. Common types of synovial joints include: Hinge joint – allows movement in one plane (flexion and extension) (e.g. elbow joint). Ball and socket joint – allows movement in multiple planes and rotation (e.g. glenohumeral joint). Saddle joint – allows movement in two planes with greater freedom than condyloid joints (e.g. carpometacarpal joint of the thumb). Pivot joint – allows rotation around a central axis (e.g. proximal radioulnar joint). Plane (gliding) joint – allows sliding or gliding movements (e.g. intercarpal joints). Ellipsoid (condyloid) joint – allows movement in two planes but no rotation (e.g. radiocarpal joint). By OpenStax College [CC BY 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons Fig 3The different types of synovial joint. Actions The actions describe the movements that occur at the joint. These depend on the type and structure of the joint. For definitions of specific movements, see our terms of movement article. Examples: The elbow joint allows flexion and extension of the forearm relative to the arm. The hip joint permits flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, and rotation. The talocrural joint allows plantarflexion and dorsiflexion. Range of Motion The range of motion describes the degree to which movements occur at the joint. This can vary depending on the joint structure and surrounding soft tissue. Examples: The talocrural joint allows approximately 50° of plantarflexion. The hip joint allows approximately 45° of abduction. The elbow joint allows approximately 0° to 150° of flexion. Print Article Rate This Article