Stability & Range of Motion Practice

Explain why synovial joints have greater flexibility than fixed and cartilaginous joint.

Unlike fixed joints or cartilaginous joints, where the bones are connected by either connective tissue or cartilage, the bones in synovial joints are not directly joined by anything, which allows for a much greater range of motion.

What differentiates extension from hyperextension? A. Extension bends joints in the opposite direction as hyperextension. B. Extension straightens a joint, and hyperextension bends it but in the opposite direction from flexion. C. Hyperextension straightens a joint, and extension bends it in the opposite direction from flexion. D. Both bend joints, but extension can be damaging.

B

Which of the following BEST describes a body in equilibrium? A. It is standing upright. B. All forces acting on a body are balanced. C. The force of gravity has been overcome. D. No forces are acting on the body.

B

How are balance and stability different concepts?

Balance is the ability to maintain equilibrium by neutralizing the forces that disturb it. Stability, meanwhile, is the ability to maintain balance while participating in actions that are likely to upset balance. Standing on one leg for several minutes demonstrates good balance, while playing in a vigorous soccer game without tripping or falling demonstrates good stability.

How many types of joints are there in the human body? A. 4 B. 2 C. 12 D. 6

D

The carpal bones in the hands are an example of __________. A. hinge joints B. condyloid joints C. saddle joints D. gliding joints

D

Which of the following statements about joints is TRUE? A. Fixed joints have the greatest range of motion. B. Most joints are joined by cartilage or connective tissue. C. They are all very flexible. D. They occur where two or more bones join.

D

Explain the difference between a joint's possible range of motion and its actual range of motion.

Each type of joint has a possible range of motion associated with it. This possible range of motion depends upon the type of joint it is, rather than the characteristics of the individual who possesses this joint. A joint's actual range of motion, however, is dependent upon the fitness levels of the individual. Since the possible range of motion is the theoretical maximal range of motion, the actual range of motion will always be less.

How might being too strong actually restrict a joint's range of motion?

If excess muscle is too bulky it can interfere with the motion of a joint, which means that too much muscle strength can reduce a joint's range of motion and can actually reduce flexibility.

Why are men typically less stable on their feet than women?

Women generally have a lower center of gravity than men, which contributes to greater stability. Men generally have more muscle mass in their upper arms and bodies, which raises their center of gravity and can make them less stable on their feet.