Which of the following is an example of a Hinge joint?

Appeared in: DSSSB 14 August 2024

Explanation

The elbow joint is a classic example of a hinge (ginglymus) joint.
Hinge joints are uniaxial, meaning they allow movement in only one plane around a single axis.
The primary movements at the elbow joint are flexion and extension, similar to the opening and closing of a door hinge.

Option A: The shoulder joint is a ball-and-socket (spheroidal) joint, not a hinge joint.
Option B: The hip joint is a ball-and-socket (spheroidal) joint, which allows for movement in multiple planes.
Option C: The atlantoaxial joint (between the first and second cervical vertebrae) is a pivot (trochoid) joint, which allows for rotation.

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.
Understanding joint types is fundamental for nurses to accurately assess a patient's range of motion (ROM) and identify limitations or abnormalities.
Knowledge of joint mechanics helps in planning appropriate patient positioning, mobilization, and physical therapy interventions to prevent contractures and maintain function.
What if? - If a patient has rheumatoid arthritis affecting their elbow, the nurse would expect pain, swelling, and stiffness primarily with flexion and extension movements, as these are the principal actions of a hinge joint. In contrast, arthritis in the shoulder (a ball-and-socket joint) would affect a much wider range of movements.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core concept of the question, which is 'Hinge joint'.
Recall the definition of a hinge joint: a joint that allows movement in only one plane (uniaxial), like a door hinge (flexion and extension).
Systematically evaluate each option against this definition.
Analyze Option A (Shoulder joint): Recall that the shoulder allows movement in many directions (flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, rotation). This is a ball-and-socket joint, so it's incorrect.
Analyze Option B (Hip joint): Similar to the shoulder, the hip allows for a wide range of motion. It is also a ball-and-socket joint, so it's incorrect.
Analyze Option C (Atlantoaxial joint): This joint is in the neck and allows the head to rotate. This is the function of a pivot joint, so it's incorrect.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Osteology InderbirSingh 5e p. 24-26

E6 Anatomy Applied Ashalatha 4e p. 298-300

E6 Physiology Ganong 27e Vol 2 Part 3 p. 59-61

Practise the full DSSSB 14 August 2024

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