Synarthrosis

Definition

Synarthrosis is a type of joint that permits little or no mobility. These joints are typically fibrous and found in locations where stability is crucial, such as the sutures of the skull.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Synarthroses are primarily fibrous joints.
2. They provide stability and strength to the skeletal structure.
3. Common examples include sutures in the skull and gomphoses in teeth sockets.
4. These joints are immovable or allow very limited movement.
5. Important for protecting vital organs by forming rigid structures.

Review Questions

• What type of movement is permitted by synarthrosis?
• Where in the human body can synarthrosis typically be found?
• What is a common example of a synarthrosis joint?

Related terms

Amphiarthrosis: one sentence definition allowing slight movement, usually cartilaginous, such as intervertebral discs.

Diarthrosis: freely movable joints characterized by a synovial cavity, like the knee or elbow.

Fibrous Joints: connected by dense connective tissue consisting mainly of collagen, including sutures and syndesmoses.