Saddle joint

Last revised by Andrew Dixon on 4 Feb 2016

Saddle joints are a type of synovial joint that allow articulation by reciprocal reception. Both bones have concave-convex articular surfaces which interlock like two saddles opposed to one another.  

Movements

Saddle joints allow movement with two degrees of freedom much like condyloid joints. They allow flexion / extension, abduction / adduction and therefore also allow circumduction. Unlike ball and socket joints, saddle joints do not allow axial rotation.  

  • flexion / extension
  • abduction / adduction
  • cirumduction
Examples

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