In simple terms, a joint is the area of the body where two or more bones are joined together. Joints use a network of muscles, tendons, cartilage and ligaments. The muscles are attached to bones with tendons. Tendon is a flexible tissue made from fibrous cords. Muscles create movement in the joint, and they also help us to stabilize the joint.
Smooth articular cartilage encases the bones in the joint and helps for a fluent movement, without friction, while the pads of cartilage help our body to absorb shock. Ligaments tough bands of fibrous tissue, bind the joint together.
The entire joint is surrounded by a protective covering or “glove” of strong fibrous material that is called joint capsule. The synovial lining of the joint capsule let in tiny amounts of fluid that lubricate the joint. Also there are, some joints (such as the knee and the shoulder) that are supplemented by bursa sacs. Little fluid filled sacs that help cushion the joint and reduce the friction.
The human body has many different kinds of joints. From simple joints like the elbow to very complex joints such as the hip and shoulder, which can move in many different directions. In addition, some joints are forced to withstand tremendous weights and forces. Our knee, for example, must support the weight of the entire body as it moves through space. Furthermore,pressure on the knee is enlarged when you run, climb stairs, or walk on an uneven terrain.
