BIOS 251 Week 7 Case Study: Joints

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Chamberlain University

BIOS-251 Anatomy & Physiology I

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Date

Case Study: Joints

Joints, or articulations, are the points where two or more bones meet, enabling both movement and stability. Joints can be classified either by their structure or by their function. Structural classification divides joints into three types: fibrous, cartilaginous, and synovial, based on the materials that compose them and the presence or absence of a cavity. Functional classification categorizes joints as synarthroses (immovable), amphiarthroses (slightly movable), or diarthroses (freely movable) (Saladin, 2019).

The knee is an example of a hinge joint, which is a type of synovial joint. Hinge joints permit movement in one plane, such as bending and straightening. Examples include the elbow, knee, interphalangeal joints, and the tibiotalar joint of the ankle (Saladin, 2019).

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is located in the middle of the knee, running diagonally between the tibia and the femur. It prevents the tibia from sliding forward and provides rotational stability to the knee. The ACL works in conjunction with the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) to stabilize the knee and protect it from hyperextension. Together, the ACL and PCL ensure the body’s weight is centered on the knee joint, preventing damage to other ligaments (Saladin, 2019).

Hemarthrosis refers to bleeding into a joint, which can cause joint pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion. Hemarthrosis can result from injuries or from bleeding disorders like hemophilia (Saladin, 2019).

BIOS 251 Week 7 Case Study: Joints

Regarding Eli’s recovery, it is possible for him to return to playing sports the following year. Rehabilitation is essential both before and after surgery. Preoperatively, physical therapy will help reduce knee pain and swelling, while strengthening the surrounding muscles. Postoperatively, the rehabilitation process begins immediately, focusing on regaining range of motion, strength, and stability. The recommended timeline for a full return to sports is between six months to one year, provided that Eli adheres strictly to his rehabilitation plan to prevent complications and re-injury (Saladin, 2019).

References

Saladin, K. S., Gan, C. A., & Cushman, H. N. (2021). Anatomy & Physiology: The Unity of Form and Function (9th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.

Saladin, K. (2019). Anatomy and Physiology: The Unity of Form and Function (9th ed.). McGraw-Hill.