Which joint allows for movements such as flexion and extension primarily?

The hinge joint is specifically designed to allow movements primarily in one plane, enabling flexion and extension. This type of joint functions like the hinge of a door, allowing the bones to move toward and away from each other in a straightforward manner. Examples of hinge joints in the human body include the elbows and knees, where the primary actions involve bending and straightening.

In contrast, the other joint types have different movement capacities. For instance, ball and socket joints, such as the shoulder and hip, allow for a wide range of motion including rotation, which exceeds mere flexion and extension. Pivot joints, found in the neck, enable rotational movement around a single axis but do not facilitate flexion and extension movements. Gliding joints allow for sliding or translational movements but also do not focus on the flexion and extension actions. Therefore, the hinge joint is uniquely suited for flexion and extension, distinguishing it from the other joint types.