Fibrous joints

Definition

Fibrous joints are connections between bones held together by dense connective tissue, primarily collagen. These joints generally allow very little or no movement.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Fibrous joints are classified into three types: sutures, syndesmoses, and gomphoses.
2. Sutures are found in the skull and allow for growth during youth but become immovable (synarthroses) as they ossify with age.
3. Syndesmoses are slightly movable (amphiarthroses) and are found between long bones like the radius and ulna in the forearm.
4. Gomphoses are specialized fibrous joints where a peg-like structure fits into a socket, such as teeth fitting into the jawbone.
5. Unlike other joint types, fibrous joints do not have a joint cavity.

Review Questions

Related terms

Synovial Joints: Joints that contain a fluid-filled cavity allowing for significant movement between bones.

Cartilaginous Joints: Joints connected entirely by cartilage and allow more movement than fibrous joints but less than synovial joints.

Ligaments:

Bands of tough, elastic connective tissue that connect bones to one another at a joint.