Which joint allows only forward and backward movement?

Which joint allows only forward and backward movement?

• A. Gliding
• B. Pivot
• C. Ball and socket
• D. Hinge

Answer: (D)

Movements in one plane come from a hinge joint. This type is uniaxial, meaning it moves around a single axis, allowing only flexion (forward bending) and extension (backward straightening). That’s why the elbow and knee are classic examples: they bend and straighten rather than move side-to-side or rotate. The other joints don’t fit because gliding joints slide surfaces in multiple directions, pivot joints rotate around a single axis, and ball-and-socket joints allow movement in several planes plus rotation.

Movements in one plane come from a hinge joint. This type is uniaxial, meaning it moves around a single axis, allowing only flexion (forward bending) and extension (backward straightening). That’s why the elbow and knee are classic examples: they bend and straighten rather than move side-to-side or rotate. The other joints don’t fit because gliding joints slide surfaces in multiple directions, pivot joints rotate around a single axis, and ball-and-socket joints allow movement in several planes plus rotation.