Understanding the classification of joints is important in understanding the related pathology. In general, the more stable a joint is the less mobile it will be, and conversely the more mobile a joint is the more easily it can be dislocated. 

The classification of joints has two schools: the structural and functional systems. This is a common question in anatomical examinations where a candidate will be expected to give both the structural and functional classification of a given joint. 

Credits to OpenStax College for some images in this flowchart

License: Licensed under Creative Commons BY 3.0

Author: OpenStax College, cnx.org

Images adapted for square crop by Dr Jeffrey Cheng.