Liðamót

Liðamót are the joints where two or more bones meet. They form the mechanical links of the skeleton, allowing a range of movements while bearing loads and maintaining stability. The term encompasses all types of connections from immobile sutures in the skull to highly mobile hinge, ball-and-socket, and pivot joints.

Structural classification divides liðamót into fibrous, cartilaginous, and synovial joints. Fibrous joints are connected by dense connective tissue and typically allow little or no movement, as in skull sutures. Cartilaginous joints are joined by cartilage and offer limited mobility, as with intervertebral discs or the pubic symphysis. Synovial joints are the most movable, featuring a joint cavity enclosed by a joint capsule, articular cartilage, and a synovial membrane that secretes lubricating fluid.

Within synovial joints, several elements contribute to function: ligaments reinforce the capsule, menisci or articular discs improve fit and load distribution, and bursae reduce friction. The articular cartilage covers joint surfaces to minimize wear.

Functional classification distinguishes synarthroses (immovable joints), amphiarthroses (slightly movable), and diarthroses (freely movable). Diarthroses are predominantly synovial joints and include examples such as the knee, elbow, shoulder, hip, and ankle, as well as many small joints in the hands and feet.

Developmentally, liðamót adapt through growth and remodeling; aging can reduce cartilage resilience and alter joint mechanics. Common disorders include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, sprains, and dislocations, each affecting movement and stability in different ways.