Articular disc

Articular disk
Vertical section through the articulations at the wrist, showing the synovial cavities. (Articular disk labeled at center right.)
Details
Identifiers
Latin	discus articularis
TA	A03.0.00.032
FMA	76690
Anatomical terminology []

The articular disk (or disc) is a thin, oval plate of fibrocartilage present in several joints which separates synovial cavities. This separation of the cavity space allows for separate movements to occur in each space.

The presence of an articular disk also permits a more even distribution of forces between the articulating surfaces of bones, increases the stability of the joint, and aids in directing the flow of synovial fluid to areas of the articular cartilage that experience the most friction.

The term "meniscus" has a very similar meaning.

Sternoclavicular articulation. Anterior view.

Diagrammatic section of a diarthrodial joint, with an articular disk.