The neck is an example of which type of joint?

The neck, specifically referring to the cervical region of the spine, demonstrates the characteristics of a pivot joint. In a pivot joint, one bone rotates around another, allowing for a limited range of motion. In the case of the neck, the first cervical vertebra (the atlas) allows the second cervical vertebra (the axis) to pivot around it, facilitating the rotation of the head. This pivotal movement enables you to turn your head side to side, which is essential for everyday activities such as looking over your shoulder.

Understanding the function of the neck as a pivot joint helps underscore the importance of this type of joint in providing both stability and flexibility in the cervical region. The anatomical structure of the cervical vertebrae has evolved to support this particular range of motion, distinguishing it from other joint types that allow different movements, such as the hinge joint found in the elbows or the ball-and-socket joint like the shoulder.