There are three different types of fibrous or cartilaginous joints. These particular joints are characterized by having no joint capsule and little if any possibility of movement. Sutures and are formed from fibrous tissue that permits the continued growth of bones that eventually ossify (bone formation). The easiest way to remember them is they are the ones that unite the bones of the skull and their status is frequently used to determine age.

More important clinically are the syndesmosis joints. This kind of fibrous joint joins skeletal structures that are located relatively far apart and are united by ligaments. With ageing or after a trauma, these fibrous tissues tend to ossify and form bone-like structures that link two bones that are not supposed to be joined. Examples of this fibrous union can occur between the radius and the ulna as well as the tibia and fibula after a fracture. The third type of fibrous joint is called gomphoses. Likened to a peg and socket, these joints are seen between teeth and jaw and are maintained by the periodontal ligament, which gives only a little to act as a shock absorber. As they join the teeth to the tooth socket, any changes in their status are used to clinically evaluate periodontal disease.