Synovial Joints - Hinge Joints

Hinge (a.k.a. ginglymus) joints allow flexion and extension only. The movement at hinge joints is around one axis that is perpendicular to the bones of the joint. Hinge joints are another example of uniaxial joints. In these joints, the capsule is thin and flexible on the surfaces where bending occurs, but is reinforced with strong laterally placed collateral ligaments. Examples of hinge joints are the:

1. elbow
2. knee
3. interphalangeal joints (the joints between finger and toe segments)