Skip to main content

Unfortunately we don't fully support your browser. If you have the option to, please upgrade to a newer version or use Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, or Safari 14 or newer. If you are unable to, and need support, please send us your feedback.

Elsevier
Publish with us
Articular Capsules of Proximal Interphalangeal Joints of Hand
Connective Tissue

Articular Capsules of Proximal Interphalangeal Joints of Hand

Capsulae articulares articulationum interphalangearum proximalium manus

Read more

Anatomical Relations

The articular capsules of the interphalangeal joints are the membranous sacs enclosing the articular surface of the phalanges, which form hinge joints. It is composed of an outer fibrous membrane and an inner synovial membrane. The ligament of the interphalangeal joints, i.e., the palmar, collateral, and accessory collateral ligaments reinforce the articular capsule.

Complete Anatomy
The world's most advanced 3D anatomy platform
Try it for Free

Function

The articular capsule of the interphalangeal joint ensures that the joint is sealed, thus, keeping the lubricating synovial fluid within the joint. It provides passive stability to the joint by limiting the joint movement. Additionally, it provides active stability by containing numerous proprioceptive nerve endings which relay mechanical information back to the central nervous system (Ralphs and Benjamin, 1994).

References

Ralphs, J. R. and Benjamin, M. (1994) 'The joint capsule: structure, composition, ageing and disease', Journal of Anatomy, 184(Pt 3), pp. 503-509.

Learn more about this topic from other Elsevier products

Interphalangeal Joint

ScienceDirect image

The distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint is a hinge joint that is composed of the middle phalanx head and distal phalanx base.

Explore on ScienceDirect opens in new tab/window

Complete Anatomy

The world's most advanced 3D anatomy platform

Complete Anatomy