The neck is an example of which type of joint?

The neck primarily utilizes a pivot joint, specifically at the atlantoaxial joint, which is located between the first two cervical vertebrae (the atlas and axis). This type of joint allows for rotational movement, enabling the head to turn from side to side.

In the case of the neck, the unique structure of the vertebrae and the alignment of the cervical spine provide the functional capability to rotate and enable the head to tilt. The pivot joint is characterized by a cylindrical boney structure that rotates within a ring, which effectively describes how movement occurs in this area.

Understanding the pivot joint's function in the neck illustrates how it supports a wide range of motion, particularly in rotation, distinguishing it from the other types of joints. Hinge joints allow for movement in one plane, such as the elbow and knee, while ball-and-socket joints (like the shoulder and hip) enable movement in multiple planes and involve a spherical bone fitting into a cup-like structure. Gliding joints, seen in areas like the wrist, permit limited movement that allows bones to slide over one another, but they do not provide the same rotational capability found in the pivot joint of the neck.