The Skeletal SystemPart 2: joints,

ligaments, cartilage and

tendons

What is a joint?

• A joint is a place where 2 bones meet

• Joints allow bones to move

• Think about where your knee bends

What is a joint?

• Immovable joint• This is a joint where

bones will move together

• Think about you skull• Different pieces that

move together

What is a joint?• Movable joint• Joints that can move in

different ways

What is a joint?

• Pivot joint• One bone rotates

around another• Think about your lower

arm

What is a joint?

• Hinge joint• Can move forwards

and/or backwards• Can bend• Think about you knee

and elbow and where they bend

What is a joint?

• Ball and socket joint• Can move one bone in a

circle motion• Usually a large range of

motion• Think about how you

can move your shoulder around in a large circle

What is a joint?

• Gliding joint• This is where one bone

can slide over another bone

• There are bones in your hands, ankles and feet that can do this

What is a ligament?• Bones must be held

together at each joint• Ligaments help the bones

stay together at joints• Ligaments are like ropes

that hold bones in place• Ligaments connect bone-

to-bone• Ligaments help keep

bones in place

What is cartilage?

• Cartilage is found at the end of bones and covers the ends

• Cartilage is smooth• It reduces friction

between your bones• It is like a soft cushion

between your bones

What are tendons?

• Muscles move bones at each joint

• Tendons are like ropes that help your muscles move the bone

• Tendons connect muscle to bone

• Tendons are important for your body to move