Cartilaginous joints connect bones using cartilage, providing stability and limited movement.
Structure of Cartilaginous Joints
Cartilaginous joints are characterized by the presence of cartilage connecting adjacent bones. There are two main types:
- Synchondroses: These joints use hyaline cartilage. Example: The epiphyseal plate.
- Symphyses: These joints use fibrocartilage. Example: The pubic symphysis.
Function of Cartilaginous Joints
The primary functions of cartilaginous joints include:
- Connecting and Fusing Bones: As the reference states, the cartilages present within the cartilaginous joints connect and fuse the adjacent bones. This provides stability and support.
- Bone Growth: In synchondroses, hyaline cartilage in the epiphyseal plate allows for bone growth. According to the reference, the hyaline cartilage present in synchondroses form a region called the epiphyseal plate, where bone growth occurs and the developing bone matures into an adult bone.
- Limited Movement: Cartilaginous joints permit slight movement, offering more flexibility than fibrous joints but less than synovial joints. Symphyses, with their fibrocartilage pads, can withstand compression and tension, allowing some movement.
Cartilaginous Joints: A Summary
| Feature | Synchondroses | Symphyses |
|---|---|---|
| Cartilage Type | Hyaline Cartilage | Fibrocartilage |
| Movement | Immovable to Slightly Movable | Slightly Movable |
| Primary Function | Bone Growth (Epiphyseal Plate), temporary joint | Shock Absorption, Strength |
| Examples | Epiphyseal plates in growing bones, joint between first rib and sternum | Pubic symphysis, intervertebral discs |
