This kind of synovial joint can move in three perpendicular planes of motion?

A ball and socket joint is characterized by its unique structure that allows for an extensive range of motion. This type of synovial joint features a spherical head of one bone fitting into a cupped socket of another bone, enabling movement in three perpendicular planes: flexion and extension, abduction and adduction, as well as internal and external rotation.

Due to this design, ball and socket joints are found in key areas of the body that require a high degree of mobility, such as the shoulder and hip joints. This extensive range of motion is essential for various physical activities and functional movements, allowing for both stability and flexibility.

In contrast, other types of synovial joints, such as condyloid, saddle, and pivot joints, have more limited ranges of motion. For example, condyloid joints allow for movement in two planes (like the wrist), while pivot joints are limited to rotational movement around a single axis (like the neck). Saddle joints enable movements similar to condyloid joints but with a greater range of motion in some directions, albeit still not encompassing the full three-dimensional mobility offered by ball and socket joints.