Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

8. Joints

Classification of Joints

Anatomy & Physiology

8. Joints

Classification of Joints

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Multiple Choice

Which of the following joints is the least stable?

Elbow joint

Hip joint

Knee joint

Shoulder joint

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Verified step by step guidance

Understand the concept of joint stability: Joint stability refers to the ability of a joint to maintain its position and resist dislocation or injury. It is influenced by factors such as the structure of the joint, the strength of surrounding muscles, ligaments, and tendons, and the range of motion allowed by the joint.

Examine the structure of the shoulder joint: The shoulder joint, also known as the glenohumeral joint, is a ball-and-socket joint formed between the humerus and the scapula. It allows a wide range of motion, which contributes to its decreased stability compared to other joints.

Compare the shoulder joint with other joints: The elbow joint is a hinge joint with limited range of motion, providing more stability. The hip joint is also a ball-and-socket joint but has a deeper socket and stronger ligaments, making it more stable. The knee joint, while complex, has strong ligaments and tendons that provide stability.

Consider the range of motion: The shoulder joint has the greatest range of motion of any joint in the body, which inherently makes it less stable. This increased mobility comes at the cost of stability, making it more prone to dislocations and injuries.

Conclude why the shoulder joint is the least stable: Due to its anatomical structure, wide range of motion, and the relatively shallow socket, the shoulder joint is the least stable compared to the elbow, hip, and knee joints.