WAT IS A JOINT?

A joint is the connection between two bones. It allows smooth movement.

Three types of joints are distinguished, depending on their mobility:

• Mobile joints that allow large movements (knee, ankle, shoulder, elbow, hip, etc.)
• Semi-mobile joints that allow small movements (like the ones joining the vertebrae).
• Immobile joints that do not allow any movement (like those connecting the bones of the skull).

HEALTHY MOBILE JOINTS

• Joint cartilage : cartilage is a smooth, white, non-vascularized tissue that covers and protects the bone ends of all joints. It forms an elastic pad that allows joints to absorb shock while we move.
• The joint capsule : the joint capsule surrounds and defines the joints.
• The synovial membrane : the synovial membrane covers the inner face of the joint capsule. It nourishes and lubricates the joint surfaces by producing synovial fluid.