Joint

A joint is a connection between skeletal or other supporting parts that may permit movement. Its structure determines its range of motion, stability, and load-bearing capacity.

Articular cartilage: Smooth connective tissue covering the ends of bones in many movable joints. It reduces friction and distributes pressure where joint surfaces meet.
Synovial joint: A joint with a fluid-filled cavity between articulating surfaces enclosed by a capsule. This is the principal joint design that enables broad, low-friction movement.
Fibrous joint: A joint in which bones are joined by dense connective tissue, usually allowing little movement. It contrasts with cavity-bearing joints that permit broad movement.
Osteoarthritis: A degenerative joint disease involving cartilage loss and changes in surrounding tissues. Damage to joint surfaces and supporting tissues can cause pain and restricted motion.
Joint capsule: A connective-tissue sleeve enclosing a synovial joint. Its outer layer contains the joint while its inner lining produces synovial fluid.
Hinge joint: A synovial joint that mainly permits bending and straightening around one axis. Its constrained motion contrasts with joints that move in several directions.
Cartilaginous joint: A joint in which bones are connected by cartilage, permitting limited movement or no movement. It provides a cartilage-based connection rather than a synovial cavity.
Joint dislocation: A displacement in which the bones forming a joint lose their normal alignment. It occurs when forces overcome the structures that maintain joint alignment.
Synovial fluid: A viscous fluid within synovial joint cavities that lubricates surfaces and supports cartilage. It helps cartilage glide and receive nutrients in joints with cavities.
Ball-and-socket joint: A synovial joint in which a rounded surface fits into a cup-like socket. Its geometry permits rotation and movement across multiple axes.

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