Articulatio plana

Articulatio Plana is a type of joint found in the human body. It is also known as a plane joint or gliding joint due to the nature of its movement.

Anatomy

The articulatio plana is characterized by its flat or slightly curved articulating surfaces. This allows for a gliding or sliding movement, where one bone moves over the surface of another. These joints are typically found in areas where limited movement is required, such as the carpal bones in the wrist or the tarsal bones in the foot.

Structure

The articulatio plana consists of two bones with flat or slightly curved surfaces. These bones are covered with a thin layer of hyaline cartilage, which reduces friction and allows for smooth movement. The joint is surrounded by a fibrous joint capsule, which is lined with a synovial membrane. This membrane produces synovial fluid to lubricate the joint and facilitate movement.

Function

The primary function of the articulatio plana is to allow for gliding or sliding movements. This type of movement is typically limited to two directions, although some plane joints allow for a small degree of rotation. The specific movements allowed by a plane joint depend on its location in the body. For example, the plane joints in the wrist allow for flexion and extension, as well as some degree of abduction and adduction.

Clinical Significance

Due to their limited movement, plane joints are less likely to be injured than other types of joints. However, they can still be affected by conditions such as osteoarthritis, which can cause pain and reduced mobility. Treatment for conditions affecting the articulatio plana typically involves physical therapy, medication, and in some cases, surgery.

See Also

• Joint
• Synovial joint
• Carpal bones
• Tarsal bones