Flowcharts outlining the standard anatomical classification of joints. There are two major schools of classification: structural and functional. Although different, there is significant overlap between their descriptions and these diagrams aim to demonstrate this.
Case Discussion
Understanding the classification of joints is important in understanding the related pathology. In general, the more stable a joint is the less mobile it will be, and conversely the more mobile a joint is the more easily it can be dislocated.
The classification of joints has two schools: the structural and functional systems. This is a common question in anatomical examinations where a candidate will be expected to give both the structural and functional classification of a given joint.
Credits to OpenStax College for some images in this flowchart
License: Licensed under Creative Commons BY 3.0
Author: OpenStax College, cnx.org
Images adapted for square crop by Dr Jeffrey Cheng.
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