Articulations are ways in which our bones connect to each other

Articulations are ways in which our bones connect to each other, and sometimes permits movement, and sometimes it doesn’t. Let’s begin by identifying the different kinds of joints in our bodies, describing manner of movement, if it moves and location for each

There are diarthroses joints, which are freely movable joints. The location of diathroses joints are ball and socket joints like the one in your shoulder or elbow. Also the joints in the carpals and tarsals.

Then there are amphiarthrotic joints, which are slightly movable. An example of an amphiarthrotic joint is the intervertebral disks and the pubic symphysis.

Lastly there are synarthrotic joints, which have no movement at all and are fibrous joints. Examples of synarthrotic joints are skull sutures and teeth in sockets.

Let’s discuss the disorders of the joints, and begin by differentiating between Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis. 

The differences between Osteoarthritis (OA) and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is what happens in the joints. In RA joints are painful swollen and stiff because of swelling in the joints. While in OA joints may be tender but have no swelling. RA often affects small joints and large joints on both sides of the body, so it’s a symmetrical disease, such as either hands, either wrists or elbows, or the balls of both feet. OA is usually limited to one set of joints. OA develops slowly over the years, while RA develops fast.