What type of joint allows for rotational movement, such as in the neck?

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

Answer: (D)

Rotation around a single axis is what defines a pivot joint. In the neck, the atlas (the first vertebra) rotates on the axis (the second vertebra) thanks to this pivot arrangement, using the dens as the central point. That setup lets the head turn from side to side without wide movement in other directions.

Hinge joints move mainly in one plane, bending and straightening. Gliding joints allow small sliding movements between neighbouring bones. Ball-and-socket joints permit movements in multiple directions and axes, giving a broad range of motion, including rotation, but not the single-axis rotation that characterizes a pivot joint. So for the neck’s rotational movement, the pivot joint is the best description.