Nivelpuoli

Nivelpuoli is a Finnish term used in anatomy, biomechanics, and orthopedic technology to denote one half of a paired joint surface or articulating interface. The word combines nivel (“joint”) and puoli (“half”). In practice, nivelpuoli may refer to either the proximal or distal half of a joint surface, or to a modular half that forms part of a prosthetic joint or a biomechanical model.

In anatomical descriptions, nivelpuoli is used when a joint surface is conceptually divided into two complementary halves, such as in planning descriptions of articulation or in imaging reports. In prosthetics and robotics, the term describes a half-surface component that articulates with its opposite side in an assembled joint, often to indicate symmetry and compatibility.

Measurement and modeling: A nivelpuoli can be characterized by its geometry, surface curvature, and the motion constraints it imposes within the joint. In finite element analyses or kinematic models, each nivelpuoli is assigned properties consistent with the joint’s articulation.

Examples: The knee and hip joints can be described in terms of medial and lateral nivelpuolet when discussing paired articulating surfaces; similarly, modular components in prosthetic knees are described using nivelpuoli designations to ensure proper articulation.

See also: Nivel, Puoli, Nivelpinta, Joint surface.