Joints and Their Functions

The human skeletal system has several types of joints, classified based on their structure and movement:

1. Fibrous joints: Immovable joints (e.g., skull sutures)
2. Cartilaginous joints: Slightly movable joints (e.g., intervertebral discs)
3. Synovial joints: Freely movable joints, further classified into:
a) Ball and socket joint (e.g., hip, shoulder)
b) Hinge joint (e.g., elbow, knee)
c) Pivot joint (e.g., neck)
d) Gliding joint (e.g., wrist, ankle)
e) Saddle joint (e.g., thumb)
f) Condyloid joint (e.g., knuckles)

Each type of joint allows for specific movements and provides stability to the skeletal structure.