Yes, cartilaginous joints are movable, but typically to a lesser extent than synovial joints. They generally allow more movement than fibrous joints.
Cartilaginous joints connect bones using cartilage. The type of cartilage and the specific joint structure dictate the degree of movement possible. There are two main types of cartilaginous joints:
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Synchondroses: These joints are connected by hyaline cartilage. Many synchondroses are immovable (synarthrotic) or allow only slight movement. An example is the epiphyseal plate (growth plate) in long bones of children. These are temporary joints, as the cartilage is replaced by bone when growth ceases.
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Symphyses: These joints are connected by fibrocartilage. Symphyses allow limited movement (amphiarthrotic). The intervertebral discs between vertebrae and the pubic symphysis are examples. These provide shock absorption and flexibility.
Therefore, while some cartilaginous joints (synchondroses like growth plates) are effectively immovable, others (symphyses like intervertebral discs) allow limited movement. The overall classification is that they are movable, but to a lesser degree than synovial joints.
