kulesledd

Kuleledd is the Norwegian term for a ball-and-socket joint in anatomy; the spelling kulesledd may appear in some texts as a variant. This type of synovial joint consists of a rounded head of one bone that fits into a cup-like socket of another bone, allowing multi-axial movement.

Structure and components: The joint surfaces are covered by articular cartilage and enclosed by a fibrous joint capsule lined with a synovial membrane that secretes lubricating fluid. Ligaments reinforce the capsule, and surrounding muscles and tendons provide stability. The shoulder joint (glenohumeral) relies on the rotator cuff and the glenoid labrum; the hip joint (acetabulofemoral) is supported by strong ligaments and a deep socket.

Movement and function: The ball-and-socket design permits flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, rotation, and circumduction. Stability is enhanced by ligaments, the labrum or acetabular rim, and muscle tone, but the joints remain susceptible to dislocations if supporting structures are compromised.

Examples and pathology: The primary human examples are the shoulder (glenohumeral) and hip (acetabulofemoral) joints. Common clinical issues include dislocations, osteoarthritis, labral tears, and rotator cuff injuries that affect range of motion and joint stability.

Development and variation: Ball-and-socket joints develop from mesenchymal tissue in the embryo; aging and wear influence cartilage integrity and synovial fluid production, affecting mobility and the risk of degenerative conditions.