Main joints

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Joints are connections formed between two or more adjacent bones that hold the skeletal system together and provide varying degrees of movement. They can be classified in several ways, based on either their structure or function.

When considering the type of tissue that binds the bones together, joints can be classified as synovial, fibrous or cartilaginous. Since synovial joints are the most abundant type of joints that provide the body with mobility, they will be the focus of this study unit. Some classic examples of synovial joints include the hip, knee, shoulder, elbow and ankle joints.

Watch the video below to find out more about the structure of these joints, which bones they connect and what movements they permit.

If you want to take a step back and learn more about how joints are classified, take a look at the video below.

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Now that you have watched the video about the main joints of the human body, solidify your newly found knowledge by testing yourself with the following quiz.

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Browse atlas

Take a closer look at the main joints of the human body in the gallery below.

Summary