Question

Which of the following is an example of gliding joint?

• A. Knee joint
• B. Between the carpals
• C. Between carpal and metacarpal of thumb
• D. Between atlas and axis

Hint:

Gliding joints allow for subtle, flat movements, often found in areas requiring flexibility but not extensive range of motion. Think of the small bones that need to move past each other to allow for overall complex motion, like in the wrist (carpals) and ankle (tarsals), or between vertebrae (facet joints).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

What is a Gliding Joint?

A gliding joint (also known as a plane joint) is a type of synovial joint where two flat surfaces slide over each other. These joints allow for limited movement, mainly in the form of gliding or sliding, and are usually found in areas where a small degree of movement is necessary. Gliding joints do not allow rotation or significant bending; instead, they allow for smooth, controlled movements between bones.

Understanding the Options

Let’s examine each option to determine which one is an example of a gliding joint:

1. Knee Joint

The knee joint is primarily a hinge joint, which allows movement in one plane—flexion and extension. While the knee does involve some small gliding movements, it is mainly known for its hinge-like motion, making this option incorrect for a gliding joint.

2. Between the Carpals

The joint between the carpals (wrist bones) is a gliding joint. These joints allow for small, limited movements as the carpal bones slide over each other, providing flexibility and support for wrist movement. This makes the joint between the carpals the correct example of a gliding joint.

3. Between Carpal and Metacarpal of Thumb

The joint between the carpal and metacarpal of the thumb is a saddle joint, not a gliding joint. This type of joint allows for greater movement, including flexion, extension, and opposition (thumb movement), which is more than just the sliding movement characteristic of gliding joints. Therefore, this option is incorrect.

4. Between Atlas and Axis

The joint between the atlas and axis (the first two cervical vertebrae) is a pivot joint, not a gliding joint. This joint allows rotational movement, such as turning the head from side to side. It is not involved in sliding motion, making this option incorrect for a gliding joint.

Why the Joint Between the Carpals is the Correct Answer

The joint between the carpals is an example of a gliding joint because the carpal bones slide against each other, allowing limited but necessary movements for wrist flexibility. This makes the joint between the carpals the correct example of a gliding joint.

Why Not the Other Options?

• Knee Joint: The knee is primarily a hinge joint, not a gliding joint.
• Between Carpal and Metacarpal of Thumb: This is a saddle joint, not a gliding joint.
• Between Atlas and Axis: This is a pivot joint, not a gliding joint.

A Simple Way to Remember

Here’s a simple analogy:

• Gliding Joint: Think of two flat stones sliding against each other—this is what happens in the wrist joint between the carpals.
• Hinge Joint: Like the hinge of a door, which allows back-and-forth movement, like the knee joint.
• Saddle Joint: Think of a saddle, which allows movement in multiple directions, like the thumb joint.
• Pivot Joint: Like a doorknob that rotates, allowing movement in one direction, as seen in the atlas and axis joint.

Final Answer

The correct answer is Between the carpals, as it is an example of a gliding joint that allows small sliding movements between the wrist bones.