What is the pivotal joint?

A pivotal joint, also known as a trochochlear joint, is a type of synovial joint in which a rounded or cylindrical bone can rotate. They can be uniaxial and allow rotation around only one axis or biaxial and allow rotation on two axes at the same time.

Uniaxial pivots

- Atlantoaxial joint and joints between odontoid process of axis and transverse ligament;

- Proximal radioulnar joint; interosseous ligaments hold the joint relatively tightly allowing 180degrees supination or pronation

Biaxial pivots

- Joint between odontoid process of axis and anterior arch of atlas allows the atlantoaxial joint to have both vertical and rotational movements;

- Intertarsal ankle joint has three articular facets permitting multiaxial motions of inversion and eversion along with limited rotations and lateral flexion to some extent (subtalar and transverse tarsal joint help in these minor movements too)