How many types of freely movable joints are there?

Freely movable joints, also known as synovial joints, can be classified into six distinct types, each allowing for a specific range of movement. The six types include:

1. Hinge Joints – Allow movement in one plane, much like a door hinge (e.g., knee and elbow).

2. Ball-and-Socket Joints – Permit movement in multiple directions (e.g., shoulder and hip).

3. Pivot Joints – Enable rotation around a single axis (e.g., the joint between the first and second cervical vertebrae).

4. Saddle Joints – Allow for movement back and forth as well as side to side (e.g., the joint at the base of the thumb).

5. Condyloid Joints – Facilitate movement in multiple planes, but without rotation (e.g., wrist joint).

6. Gliding Joints – Allow bones to glide past one another in any direction along the plane of the joint (e.g., joints between the small bones of the wrist).

This classification helps in understanding the functional capabilities of different joints in the human body. Recognizing that there are six types provides a comprehensive view of the complexities of joint movement,