Which of the following is a hinge joint?

Appeared in: UPPSC-2021

Explanation

A hinge joint (ginglymus) is a type of synovial joint that functions much like the hinge on a door, allowing movement in only one plane.
This type of joint is considered uniaxial, meaning it allows for angular movement along a single axis.
The primary movements at a hinge joint are flexion (bending) and extension (straightening).
The elbow joint, which connects the humerus to the ulna, is a classic anatomical example of a hinge joint, permitting the bending and straightening of the forearm.

Option B: The shoulder joint is a ball-and-socket joint, not a hinge joint.
Option C: The hip joint, like the shoulder, is a ball-and-socket joint.
Option D: The atlantoaxial joint (between the first and second cervical vertebrae, C1 and C2) is a pivot joint.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Classification of synovial joints as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Assessing a patient's range of motion (ROM) is a core nursing skill. Knowing that an elbow is a hinge joint helps the nurse understand that its normal ROM is limited to flexion and extension. Pain or movement outside this plane (e.g., side-to-side) could signify ligament damage or fracture.
This knowledge is critical for safe patient handling and positioning. When moving a patient, the nurse must support the joints and move them only within their natural range to prevent injury.
What if? If a patient post-stroke has increased muscle tone (spasticity) in their arm, the nurse's understanding of the elbow as a hinge joint guides gentle, passive ROM exercises focused on flexion and extension to prevent contractures, rather than attempting other movements that could cause injury.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core concept in the question. Here, the keyword is 'hinge joint'.
Access your knowledge of anatomy and physiology, specifically the classification of synovial joints.
Mentally define 'hinge joint': a joint that allows movement in only one plane, like a door hinge (flexion and extension).
Evaluate each option against this definition.
Option A (Elbow joint): Recall that the elbow bends and straightens. This matches the definition of a hinge joint.
Option B (Shoulder joint) and C (Hip joint): Recall these allow movement in many directions (circular motion). This identifies them as ball-and-socket joints.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Osteology InderbirSingh 5e p. 24-26

E6 Physiology Ganong 27e Vol 2 Part 3 p. 58-60

Practise the full UPPSC-2021

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.