Temporomandibular joint biomechanical restrictions: The fluid and synovialmembrane

The authors analyze the functions of the synovial membrane and the chemical -physical properties of synovial fluid. In particular they evaluate the rol e played by synovial fluid in the complex mechanism of the temporomandibula r joint. Every single part that belongs to the temporomandibular joint, tog ether with the stomatognathic apparatus, plays a specific and particular ro le according to the dynamics and to the preservation of the correct temporo mandibular joint physiology. The physiological postural and functional rela tionship between the various parts of the temporomandibular joint is guaran teed by a number of biomechanical restrictions that lead and influence the regular execution of the articular movements. The most involved biomechanic al restrictions in the temporomandibular joint are the temporomandibular li gament, the lateral disc ligament, the bilaminar zone or retrodiscal tissue , the synovial membrane, and the synovial fluid.