Which of the following joints is also known as a Ginglymosis joint?

Appeared in: DSSSB 6 September 2024

Explanation

The term 'Ginglymus' is the formal anatomical name for a hinge joint.
Hinge (Ginglymus) joints are a class of synovial joints that are uniaxial, meaning they allow movement along a single axis.
This movement is restricted to flexion and extension, similar to the opening and closing of a door.
Common examples of hinge joints in the human body include the elbow joint (humeroulnar joint), the knee joint, and the interphalangeal joints of the fingers and toes.

Option B: A saddle joint is anatomically known as a sellar joint. It is a biaxial joint, allowing for a wider range of motion than a hinge joint.
Option C: A ball and socket joint is anatomically known as a spheroidal joint. It is a multiaxial joint, offering the greatest range of motion.
Option D: A pivot joint is anatomically known as a trochoid joint. It is a uniaxial joint that specifically allows for rotation around a central axis.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Anatomical terminology for types of synovial joints as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding the classification and movement of joints is fundamental for nurses when performing a musculoskeletal assessment, including evaluating a patient's range of motion (ROM).
Knowledge of joint types helps in identifying abnormalities, such as hypermobility or contractures, and in understanding the limitations imposed by conditions like arthritis or injury.
What if? If a patient with an elbow injury reports pain when trying to rotate their forearm, the nurse should recognize this as a potential issue with the nearby radioulnar (pivot) joint, not just the elbow (hinge) joint, as rotation is not a primary movement of a ginglymus joint.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question that tests your knowledge of anatomical terminology.
First, identify the key term in the question stem: 'Ginglymosis joint'.
Access your memory of anatomy and physiology, specifically the classification of synovial joints.
Evaluate each option to determine which common joint name is the synonym for 'Ginglymosis'.
Hinge joint is also called Ginglymus. Saddle joint is Sellar. Ball and socket is Spheroidal. Pivot is Trochoid.
Select the option that correctly matches the anatomical term.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Q_EPT1-uRzjm6YbCYmPL1O

E6 Osteology InderbirSingh 5e p. 24-26

E6 Anatomy Applied Ashalatha 4e p. 297-299

Practise the full DSSSB 6 September 2024

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