Hip Joint Anatomy and Movements

Overview

This lecture covers the anatomy of the hip joint, its articulating surfaces, main ligaments, and the range of movements possible at the joint.

Hip Joint Fundamentals

• The hip joint is a large articulation between the head of the femur and the acetabulum of the hip bone.
• It is the most proximal joint of the free lower limb.
• The hip joint is classified as a synovial ball-and-socket joint.
• It allows for a wide range of movements but is more stable and less mobile than the shoulder joint.
• The hip joint is the most stable joint in the human body due to its function in weight-bearing.

Articulating Surfaces

• The head of the femur articulates with the lunate surface of the acetabulum.

Ligaments of the Hip Joint

• Capsular ligaments: iliofemoral, pubofemoral, and ischiofemoral ligaments reinforce the joint capsule.
• Intracapsular ligaments: transverse ligament of the acetabulum and the ligament of the head of the femur (ligamentum teres femoris).

Movements at the Hip Joint

• The hip joint permits flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, lateral/external rotation, medial/internal rotation, and circumduction.

Key Terms & Definitions

• Synovial joint — a freely movable joint characterized by a synovial cavity; allows a wide range of movements.
• Ball-and-socket joint — a type of synovial joint where a spherical head fits into a cup-like socket.
• Acetabulum — the concave surface of the pelvis that articulates with the femoral head.
• Ligament — a fibrous connective tissue that connects bones and stabilizes joints.
• Circumduction — a circular movement combining flexion, extension, abduction, and adduction.

Action Items / Next Steps

• Review the bones and ligaments forming the hip joint.
• Test yourself using provided quizzes on the hip joint.
• Continue to the next topic: muscles of the hip and thigh.