Which joints have articular discs within the joint capsule?

Aug 01, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
The joint capsule is a membranous sac composed of connective tissue, attached around the joint and enclosing the joint cavity. The articular disc divides the joint cavity into two parts, allowing better conformity between the articular surfaces and fossae, thereby increasing the flexibility and variety of movements. Generally, articular discs are present within the joint capsules of joints such as the temporomandibular joint, acromioclavicular joint, distal radioulnar joint, radiocarpal joint, and knee joint.

The joint capsule is a membranous sac composed of connective tissue, attached around the joint and enclosing the joint cavity. The articular disc divides the joint cavity into two parts, allowing better conformity between the articular surfaces and fossae, thereby increasing the flexibility and variety of movements. Generally, articular discs are present within the joint capsules of certain joints such as the temporomandibular joint, acromioclavicular joint, distal radioulnar joint, radiocarpal joint, and knee joint. Specific details are as follows:

1. Temporomandibular Joint

The temporomandibular joint is formed by the mandibular head, the mandibular fossa of the temporal bone, and the articular tubercle. The left and right joints together form a paired (combined) joint responsible for mouth opening, closing, and mastication. The joint capsule is loose and reinforced on the sides by the medial and lateral ligaments. The articular disc within the joint capsule is oval-shaped and composed of fibrocartilage, divided into anterior, middle, and posterior portions.

2. Acromioclavicular Joint

The acromioclavicular joint is formed by the articulation between the articular surface of the scapular acromion and the acromial end of the clavicle. The joint capsule is relatively loose, attaching to the margins of the articular surfaces. It is further strengthened by the coracoclavicular ligament connecting the coracoid process of the scapula to the inferior aspect of the clavicle. The articular disc within the joint capsule is located superiorly and partially divides the joint; this joint has limited range of motion.

3. Distal Radioulnar Joint

The distal radioulnar joint is formed by the ulnar notch of the radius, the annular articular surface of the ulnar head, and the proximal surface of the ulnar head articulating with the triangular fibrocartilage disc of the radiocarpal joint. The articular disc is a triangular fibrocartilaginous plate that separates the ulnar head from the carpal bones.

4. Radiocarpal Joint

The radiocarpal joint consists of the wrist articular surface of the distal radius and the articular disc below the ulna forming the articular cavity. The joint capsule is loose and reinforced by ligaments on all sides. The articular disc of the radiocarpal joint contributes to the formation of the wrist joint.

5. Knee Joint

The knee joint is formed by the lower end of the femur, upper end of the tibia, and the patella. The articular discs within the knee joint are two crescent-shaped cartilaginous structures commonly known as menisci.

In addition, other joints such as those in the skull, sternoclavicular joint, and carpal joints may also have similar structures. Patients are advised to seek timely medical attention when experiencing discomfort and receive standardized treatment under the guidance of a physician, which helps promote recovery.

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