Question

Name the type of joint between Atlas/axis.

Answer 1

Hint: The joint between atlas/axis is a type of synovial joint present in the neck area. It is often known as a rotary joint, trochoid joint, or atloaxoid joint. This joint helps the back and forth movement of the head. With the help of this joint, the two forearm bones (the ulna and the radius) curl around each other.

Complete step by step answer:
In the upper part of the neck, between the first and second cervical vertebrae, the atlas and the axis, the atlantoaxial joint which is a pivot joint is present. Therefore, a pivot joint is found between the atlas and the axis. In the vertebrate anatomy, the pivot joint is a joint which only allows rotary movement. It is present immediately below the skull and allows the head to be rotated from side to side. Pivot joint assists in neck movement.

The atlas is the first bone of the cervix below the head while the axis is the second bone. The atlas bone is named after the Greek god (Atlas) who supported the globe on his shoulders. The axis has what's known as the odontoid mechanism about which the atlas rotates. The ligaments helping to stabilize and reinforce the pivot joint are called capsular; anterior and posterior atlantoaxial; and transverse ligaments.
So, the correct answer is, ‘Pivot joint’.

Note: A pivot joint is a synovial joint in which the ends of two bones meet where one of its ends has a central bony cylinder and the other end has a bone and ligament ring (or ring-like structure). The cylinder rotates inside the ring at some joints. The Ring rotates around the cylinder in other joints. For example, pivot joints allow one to turn the palm of one's hand upwards or downwards by rotating the forearm, after bending the elbow.