The intervertebral disc is which type of joint?

Study for your anatomy test with Netter's Anatomy Practice Test. Utilize questions and illustrated guides to master human anatomy and ace your exam!

Multiple Choice

The intervertebral disc is which type of joint?

Explanation:
Joints are classified by tissue into fibrous, cartilaginous, and synovial. The intervertebral disc is a cartilaginous joint, specifically a secondary cartilaginous joint called a symphysis, where adjacent vertebral bodies are joined by a fibrocartilaginous disc. The disc has an outer annulus fibrosus of tough fibrous rings and a central nucleus pulposus that acts like a gel, allowing compression and limited movement while cushioning the spine. This distinguishes it from a suture (a fibrous, immovable skull joint), an interosseous membrane (a fibrous connection between bones), and an epiphyseal plate (a hyaline cartilage growth plate that forms a synchondrosis).

Joints are classified by tissue into fibrous, cartilaginous, and synovial. The intervertebral disc is a cartilaginous joint, specifically a secondary cartilaginous joint called a symphysis, where adjacent vertebral bodies are joined by a fibrocartilaginous disc. The disc has an outer annulus fibrosus of tough fibrous rings and a central nucleus pulposus that acts like a gel, allowing compression and limited movement while cushioning the spine. This distinguishes it from a suture (a fibrous, immovable skull joint), an interosseous membrane (a fibrous connection between bones), and an epiphyseal plate (a hyaline cartilage growth plate that forms a synchondrosis).

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy