Ball and Socket Joint

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• What are Ball and Socket Joints?
• Features and Functions of Ball and Socket Joints

A point or the location within the body where two or more bones meet is called the joint. There are various types of joints in the human body and are mainly involved in combining or joining the bones within the human body.

The branch of science, which is mainly involved with the anatomy and physiology of joints is termed Arthrology.

Based on certain properties, the joints are further classified into:

1. Movable Joints
2. Immovable Joints
3. Slightly movable
4. Fibrous joint
5. Cartilaginous joints
6. Synovial joint

Explore more: Joints

Let’s learn more in detail about the Ball and Socket joints.

The smooth joint, with a hemispherical head that fits within a cuplike depression, is called the ball and socket joint. This type of joint helps in rotational or circular movements, as one bone is captivated into the hollow space of another bone. This is the most freely moving joint. Examples of a ball and socket joint are the shoulder and the hip joint.

1. It is a type of synovial joint.
2. It allows the greatest range of movement.
3. Here, the joints are held together by ligaments and tendons.
4. In this type of joint, the head of the bone is fitted into a socket of another bone.
5. The ball and socket joint comprises a type of membrane and is present within the capsule.
6. The presence of fluid within the capsule enables the parts of the joints to move against each other smoothly and freely. Therefore, it is also called the free movable joints.
7. The ball and socket joint comprises a ball-shaped head, which is attached to a cup-shaped cavity.
8. This type of synovial joint allows for a wider range of motion and also permits movements in all planes and rotational movement around the central axis.

Also Refer: Types of Joints

This article concludes with an introduction to Ball and Socket Joints, their types, structure and functions. To know more about joints, types of joints, other related topics and important questions, keep visiting our website at BYJU’S Biology.