Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Hinge joint
Introduction
Overview
Overview
In the hinge joint (ginglymus), the articular surfaces are moulded to each other in such a manner as to permit motion only in one plane, forward and backward, the extent of motion at the same time being considerable.
The direction which the distal bone takes in this motion is seldom in the same plane as that of the axis of the proximal bone; there is usually a certain amount of deviation from the straight line during flexion.
The articular surfaces are connected together by weak collateral ligaments, which form their chief bond of union.
The best examples of ginglymus are the interphalangeal joints and the joint between the humerus and ulna; the knee– and ankle-joints are less typical, as they allow a slight degree of rotation or of side-to-side movement in certain positions of the limb.