What type of joint is primarily responsible for the movements at the wrist?
Solution
Correct Answer: Option B
The joint primarily responsible for the movements at the wrist is the condyloid joint, also known as an ellipsoidal joint. This type of joint allows movement in two planes: flexion-extension and abduction-adduction, which together enable the wrist's extensive range of motion.
Anatomically, the wrist joint is formed between the distal end of the radius and the proximal row of carpal bones (primarily the scaphoid and lunate). The shape of the articulating surfaces allows for biaxial movement without rotation, distinguishing it from pivot or hinge joints.
- Option 1: Saddle joint is found at the thumb's carpometacarpal joint, permitting opposition.
- Option 3: Hinge joint allows movement in one plane, as seen in the elbow.
- Option 4: Pivot joint permits rotational movement, such as the atlantoaxial joint.
Thus, the condyloid joint best describes the wrist's articulation and movement capability.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy, 42nd Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 7: The Upper Limb / Page 756
Anatomically, the wrist joint is formed between the distal end of the radius and the proximal row of carpal bones (primarily the scaphoid and lunate). The shape of the articulating surfaces allows for biaxial movement without rotation, distinguishing it from pivot or hinge joints.
- Option 1: Saddle joint is found at the thumb's carpometacarpal joint, permitting opposition.
- Option 3: Hinge joint allows movement in one plane, as seen in the elbow.
- Option 4: Pivot joint permits rotational movement, such as the atlantoaxial joint.
Thus, the condyloid joint best describes the wrist's articulation and movement capability.
Reference: Gray's Anatomy, 42nd Edition, Volume 1, Chapter 7: The Upper Limb / Page 756
Practice More Questions on Our App!
Download our app for free and access thousands of MCQ questions with detailed solutions