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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Problem 19

Textbook Question

Although the knee joint is only one joint, it resembles____ separate joints.
(a) two
(b) three
(c) four
(d) five
(e) six

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Begin by understanding the anatomy of the knee joint. The knee joint is a complex hinge joint that connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone) and also involves the patella (kneecap).

Step 2: Recognize that the knee joint is composed of multiple articulations. Specifically, it includes the tibiofemoral joint (between the tibia and femur) and the patellofemoral joint (between the patella and femur).

Step 3: Consider the tibiofemoral joint further. This joint itself can be divided into two articulations: one between the medial condyle of the femur and tibia, and another between the lateral condyle of the femur and tibia.

Step 4: Combine the patellofemoral joint and the two tibiofemoral articulations. This gives the knee joint the appearance of resembling multiple separate joints.

Step 5: Based on the anatomical structure described, determine the number of separate joints the knee resembles by summing the patellofemoral joint and the two tibiofemoral articulations.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Knee Joint Anatomy

The knee joint is a complex structure primarily composed of three bones: the femur, tibia, and patella. It functions as a hinge joint, allowing for flexion and extension, but also has rotational capabilities. Understanding its anatomy is crucial for recognizing how it can be perceived as multiple joints due to its various movements and interactions.

Functional Joint Classification

Joints can be classified based on their function and movement capabilities. The knee joint is often described as having multiple functional components, including the tibiofemoral joint and the patellofemoral joint. This classification helps in understanding the knee's complex movements and the reason it may be likened to several joints.

Biomechanics of the Knee

The biomechanics of the knee involve the study of forces and movements acting on the joint during activities like walking, running, and jumping. The knee's ability to absorb shock and provide stability while allowing for a range of motion contributes to its complexity, making it functionally similar to multiple joints working in concert.

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Related Practice

Textbook Question

Match the types of joints to the descriptions that apply to them.

a. Fibrous joints

b. Cartilaginous joints

c. Synovial joints

7. The most common type of joint in the body

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Textbook Question

Match the types of joints to the descriptions that apply to them.

a. Fibrous joints

b. Cartilaginous joints

c. Synovial joints

9. Shoulder, hip, knee, and elbow joints

Textbook Question

Compare the amount of movement possible in synarthrotic, amphiarthrotic, and diarthrotic joints. Relate these terms to the structural classification of joints—that is, to fibrous, cartilaginous, and synovial joints.

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Textbook Question

Subacromial, subcoracoid, and subscapular bursae reduce friction in the____joint.

(a) hip

(b) knee

(d) shoulder

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Textbook Question

The hip is an extremely stable joint because it has

(a) A complete bony socket

(b) A strong joint capsule

(d) All of these