Synovial Joint Structure

Joint Capsule Fits over the ends of two bones like a sleeve It is composed of strong, fibrous (collagen) tissue. The sleeve is oversized to allow for joint motion. It is nourished by blood vessels which give it the ability to repair itself after injury

Connect two bones together Ligaments are a specialized part of this sleeve Account for the primary stability of the joint. Many joints also have internal ligaments that contribute to support, such as the cruciate ligaments of the knee. Ligaments

Cushion bone ends Reduce friction Sustained by internal blood vessels Articular Cartilage

Synovium Produces Synovial fluid The prime lubricant for the joint and The nutritional source for joint surface cartilage and meniscus cartilage Synovial Membrane

Meniscus Ten percent of synovial joints have a washer-like structure between bone ends called the meniscus Its purpose is to absorb shock, to stabilize the joint, and to spread synovial fluid. Made out of fibro-cartilage, which is a different tissue type from joint surface cartilage

The meniscus also has no blood supply, no nerves, and no lymphatic channels. Biologically, it can't heal itself. The knee meniscus is the most famous and most injured