American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Practice Exam

What type of connective tissue serves as a shock absorber in joints?

1. Bone

2. Cartilage

3. Blood

4. Fibrous connective tissue

The correct answer is: Cartilage

Cartilage is the correct answer because it is specifically designed to provide support and cushioning in joints, thus acting as a shock absorber during movement. This flexible tissue helps to reduce friction between the bones in joints and absorbs compressive forces, protecting the bones from damage during physical activity. In contrast, bone is a rigid connective tissue that primarily supports the structure of the body, while blood is a liquid connective tissue involved in transport and immune functions, not in providing structural support or shock absorption in joints. Fibrous connective tissue, while providing strength and support in structures like tendons and ligaments, does not have the same cushioning properties that cartilage has, making it less effective in the role of a shock absorber.