What type of joint primarily allows for movement between bones?

The type of joint that primarily allows for movement between bones is a synovial joint. These joints are characterized by a fluid-filled joint capsule that facilitates a wide range of motion and flexibility. Synovial joints have various types, including hinge joints (like the elbow and knee) that allow for bending and straightening, as well as ball-and-socket joints (like the shoulder and hip) that allow for rotational movement. The presence of synovial fluid within these joints reduces friction, improving mobility and efficiency in movement.

In contrast, fibrous joints do not permit movement; they are connected by dense connective tissue and are typically found in areas where stability is more critical, such as the sutures of the skull. Cartilaginous joints allow for limited movement, with bones connected by cartilage, as seen in the vertebrae. Immovable joints, as the name suggests, do not allow any movement, functioning primarily to maintain a rigid structure, such as in certain areas of the skull. This understanding of the different joint types highlights why synovial joints are the primary joints designed for movement.