Diseases of the joints, connective tissue, bones and muscles

Abstract

Fibrous joints, such as those uniting the tibia and fibula are composed of tough ligaments which allow only slight twisting movement. Cartilaginous joints are found only in the mid-line and include those of the vertebral column. Here the bone surfaces are covered with cartilage and united by a disc of fibro-cartilage surrounded by a ring of fibrous tissue attached to the periosteum of the bones; again, movements are limited but the column provides strong support. The synovial joints, found in the limbs, are free to move. The bones are united by a joint capsule which is lined by synovial membrane, the parts of the bones in contact with each other are coated with smooth articular cartilage lubricated by a layer of synovial fluid.