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Functional Classification of Joints

Functional Classification of Joints

Functional Classification of Joints
The functional classification of joints is determined by the amount of mobility between the adjacent bones. Joints are functionally classified as a synarthrosis or immobile joint, an amphiarthrosis or slightly moveable joint, or as a diarthrosis, a freely moveable joint. Fibrous and cartilaginous joints can be functionally classified as either synarthroses or amphiarthroses, whereas all synovial joints are classified as diarthroses.
Synarthrosis
An...

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Updated: Jun 26, 2025

Methods to Quantify Pharmacologically Induced Alterations in Motor Function in Human Incomplete SCI

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Published on: April 18, 2011

Beyond Contractures in Spinal Muscular Atrophy: Identifying Lower-Limb Joint Hypermobility.

Elizabeth R Harding¹, Cara H Kanner¹, Amy Pasternak^2,3

¹Department of Rehabilitation and Regenerative Medicine, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA.

Journal of Clinical Medicine

|May 11, 2024

Summary

Joint hypermobility (JH) is common in spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and impacts motor function. This study found JH in most participants, with specific joint hypermobility linked to functional outcomes, informing rehabilitation strategies.

Keywords:

contractures function hypermobility joint range of motion rehabilitation spinal muscular atrophy

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Area of Science:

Neurology
Orthopedics
Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is characterized by progressive muscle weakness and functional decline.
Contractures are common in SMA and impair function.
Joint hypermobility (JH) is clinically observed in SMA but poorly understood regarding its functional impact.

Purpose of the Study:

To investigate the prevalence of lower-limb joint hypermobility in individuals with SMA.
To determine the relationship between joint hypermobility and functional motor assessments in SMA.

Main Methods:

Range of motion (ROM) assessments of hip, knee, and ankle extension/flexion were conducted.
ROM measurements exceeding established norms were classified as hypermobile.
Functional outcomes were evaluated using the six-minute walk test (6 MWT) and Hammersmith Functional Motor Scale-Expanded (HFMSE).

Main Results:

86% of participants exhibited at least one hypermobile joint, and 22% had three or more.
Inverse correlation found between HFMSE scores and hip extension JH.
Positive correlation between HFMSE scores and knee flexion JH.
Moderate inverse relationship observed between 6 MWT distance and ankle plantar flexion JH.

Conclusions:

Joint hypermobility is highly prevalent in individuals with SMA.
Specific patterns of lower-limb JH (hip extension, knee flexion, ankle plantar flexion) are associated with functional status.
Further research into the progression of joint ROM in SMA is crucial for refining rehabilitation interventions.