Articulation, in the context of anatomy, refers to the connection between bones at a joint. Joints are critical components of the skeletal system, facilitating movement and providing structural support. There are various types of articulations, such as fibrous, cartilaginous, and synovial joints, each serving different functions in the body.
Fibrous joints, for instance, hold bones tightly together with dense connective tissue, allowing little to no movement. Cartilaginous joints, on the other hand, allow for more movement than fibrous joints but less than synovial joints, which are the most movable type, featuring a fluid-filled joint capsule.
Understanding articulation is essential for studying how the human body moves, as it affects everything from simple movements like walking to more complex actions like playing sports. Healthy articulations contribute to overall mobility, while injuries or conditions affecting joints can lead to pain and limited movement.