Question

discuss the comparison between the more flexible joint in regards to stability. Please use examples of joints to differentiate.

Answer 1

Flexibility is the absolute range of motion in a joint or system of joints, and the length of muscle that crosses the joint involved. It directly correlates with the range of motion and mobility, but does not directly correlate with strength, balance and coordination.

Stability is defined as the ability to maintain control of joint movement or position by coordinating action of surrounding tissues and the neuromuscular system. It depends largely on the shape, size and arrangement of the articular surfaces, the surrounding ligaments and the tone of the surrounding muscle.

Comparison:

• Flexibility is the ability of soft tissues to lengthen correctly while stability is the ability of surrounding soft tissues. Example: Ligaments, tendons, muscles are more flexible while scapulothoracic joint is more stable.
• A person can be very flexible, but lacks mobility or stability within a joint. Example: Knee joint is more flexible but lacks stability during sports activity.
• Flexibility allows a joint to move through its optimal range of motion while stability supports a joint through that range of motion. Example: Hip-joint is more stable while shoulder joint has great range of motion.