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π¬ 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?
![3.5.2 Hinge joint - Tissues in Action - [Teachoo] - Concepts](https://cdn.teachoo.com/f6a7bd8c-24a8-4480-bc4a-f5fc5be5bbdb/3.5.2-hinge-joint-image-47.webp)
Hinge Joint
Hinge
works like the hinge of a door
Joint
a junction between two bones
β
A joint that bends and straightens in one direction only β the elbow, and the knee protected by the kneecap.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Works like | The hinge of a door |
| Movement allowed | Bends and straightens in one direction only |
| Example in body | The elbow; also the knee, protected by the kneecap |
- 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.
π NCERT Question 5 β Which type of joint
Which type of joint is involved when you bend your knees and ankles?
(i) Ball and socket (ii) Hinge (iii) Pivot
View Answer β
(i) Ball and socket (ii) Hinge (iii) Pivot
β Test Yourself
-
In how many directions does a hinge joint move?
View Answer
One direction only. -
Name two hinge joints in the body.
View Answer
The elbow and the knee.
Important Definitions
- Hinge joint β a joint that moves in one direction only, like a door hinge.
π NCERT Question 4 β You can perform these
You can perform these two jumps (Fig. 3.21):
Straight-leg jump
β keep knees and ankles stiff.
Normal jump
β bend knees and ankles naturally. How did your ankle, knee and hip positions differ between the two jumps?
View Answer β
