Human Anatomy, Part 1 - K. A. Dyubenko, A. K. Kolomiysev, Yu. B. Chaykovsky 2002

Special Section
Arthrology, artrologia [the study of bone joints] - General Overview

Arthrology (from the Greek arthron meaning joint, and logos meaning study) is a branch of anatomy that studies the Articulations of the human Skeletal System. Bone joints are divided into three main groups (Fig. 75), namely:

- fibrous joints, articulationes fibrosae;

- cartilaginous joints, synchondrosis; articulationes;

- synovial joints, articulationes synoviales.

The simplest type of connection is achieved via Connective Tissue, which forms a fibrous joint. The most complex and highly developed type is the synovial joint. Based on their development, Structure, and function, all human bone connections are divided into two main categories: continuous joints, known as synarthroses (BNA), and discontinuous joints, known as diarthroses (or synovial joints) (BNA). An intermediate form between these types is the hemarthrosis or symphysis (derived from the Greek symphysis meaning growing together) (BNA). These are characterized by the absence of a joint cavity and the presence of a narrow cleft within the connecting Cartilage. Symphyses closely resemble continuous joints. Typical Examples include the Pubic Symphysis (symphysis pubica) and the intervertebral symphysis (symphysis intervertebralis).