American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) Practice Exam

Which joint type allows the most movement?

1. Fibrous joints

2. Cartilaginous joints

3. Synovial joints

4. Immovable joints

The correct answer is: Synovial joints

Synovial joints are distinguished by their ability to provide a wide range of motion, making them the joint type that allows the most movement. These joints are characterized by a fluid-filled joint capsule that lubricates the joint space, facilitating smooth movement between the articulating bones. The presence of ligaments, tendons, and muscles surrounding synovial joints contributes to their stability while still permitting extensive mobility. Synovial joints include several subtypes, such as hinge joints (like the elbow), ball-and-socket joints (like the shoulder and hip), and pivot joints (like the neck), each allowing for different kinds of movements—flexion, extension, rotation, and more. The high degree of flexibility and adaptability in synovial joints is crucial for various physical activities and movements in the body. In contrast, fibrous joints are connected by dense connective tissue and allow for little to no movement, serving more stable functions. Cartilaginous joints are slightly movable but do not offer the extensive range of motion found in synovial joints. Immovable joints, as the name suggests, do not allow movement at all, serving mainly to provide structural support and stability. Thus, the unique structure and characteristics of synovial joints account for their high