Articulation

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Articulation (Medicine)

Articulation (pronounced: ahr-tik-yuh-ley-shuhn) is a term used in medicine to describe the action or manner in which the parts of the body come together at a joint. The term is derived from the Latin word "articulatio", meaning a joint or articulation.

Definition

In medicine, an articulation is a joint, the area where two bones are attached for the purpose of permitting body parts to move. Articulations are constructed to allow for different degrees and types of movement. Some articulations, such as the knee, elbow, and shoulder, are self-lubricating, almost frictionless, and are able to withstand compression and maintain heavy loads while still executing smooth and precise movements.

Types of Articulations

There are three types of articulations in the human body:

  • Synovial Joints: These are the most common type of articulation in the body. They are freely movable and provide the majority of body movements. Examples include the shoulder, hip, and knee joints.
  • Fibrous Joints: These articulations are connected by fibrous tissue and are immovable. Examples include the sutures in the skull.
  • Cartilaginous Joints: These articulations are connected by cartilage and allow for only a little movement. Examples include the intervertebral discs in the spine.

Related Terms

  • Joint: A point of connection between two bones or elements of a skeleton (especially if the articulation allows motion).
  • Ligament: A short band of tough, flexible, fibrous connective tissue that connects two bones or cartilages or holds together a joint.
  • Tendon: A flexible but inelastic cord of strong fibrous collagen tissue attaching a muscle to a bone.
  • Cartilage: A resilient and smooth elastic tissue, rubber-like padding that covers and protects the ends of long bones at the joints.

See Also

External links

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