3.5.2 Hinge joint

Last updated at June 28, 2026 by

๐Ÿ’ฌ Think about it

Your elbow bends and straightens, but it cannot spin. It works like the hinge of a door. What is this joint called? Let us find out.

What is a hinge joint?
  • It bends and straightens in one direction only.
  • It works like the hinge of a door.
  • The elbow is a hinge joint.
  • The knee is also a hinge joint, protected by the kneecap.
Important Points
  • A hinge joint moves in one direction only.
  • The elbow and knee are hinge joints.
  • The kneecap protects the knee joint.

๐Ÿ“‹ NCERT Question 5 — Which type of joint

Which type of joint is involved when you bend your knees and ankles?
View Answer →
โ“ Test Yourself
  1. In how many directions does a hinge joint move?
    View Answer Hide Answer
    One direction only.
  2. Name two hinge joints in the body.
    View Answer Hide Answer
    The elbow and the knee.
Important Definitions
  • Hinge joint — a joint that moves in one direction only, like a door hinge.

๐Ÿ“‹ NCERT Question 4 — You can perform these

You can perform a straight-leg jump and a normal jump — how do ankle, knee and hip positions differ?
View Answer →
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