Condyloid Joints

In a "condyloid joint" (ellipsoidal), an ovoid condyle of one bone fits into an elliptical cavity of another bone, as in the joints between the metacarpals in the hand and the phalanges (finger bones). The five metacarpal bones, one in line with each finger, form the framework of the palm. The metacarpals articulate proximally with the phalanges (bones of the fingers). The ligaments that bind these bones are the "palmar" and "dorsal metacarpal ligaments." This type of joint permits a variety of movements in different planes; rotating movement, however, is not possible.