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Hinge joint
	1: Ball and socket joint; 2: Condyloid joint (Ellipsoid); 3: Saddle joint; 4 Hinge joint; 5: Pivot joint;
	Metacarpophalangeal articulation and articulations of digit. Ulnar aspect.
Latin	articulatio gynglimus
Gray's	subject #70 285

hinge joint(ginglymus) is a bone joint in which the articular surfaces are moulded to each other in such a manner as to permit motion only in one plane—backward and forward—the extent of motion at the same time being considerable.

The direction which the distal bone takes in this motion is seldom in the same plane as that of the axis of the proximal bone; there is usually a certain amount of deviation from the straight line during flexion.

The articular surfaces are connected together by strong collateral ligaments, which form their chief bond of union.

The best examples of ginglymus are the interphalangeal joints and the joint between the humerus and ulna; the knee- and ankle-joints are also hinge joints, but allowing very slight side to side movement. The knee is the largest hinge joint in the human body.

Similar objects that work like hinged joints are door hinges, closet doors, dog flaps etc.

[edit] See also

Interphalangeal articulations of hand

Interphalangeal articulations of foot

[edit] External links