Il knee is a complex joint, which flexes, extends and twists slightly from side to side; it is the meeting point of the femur (thigh), in the upper part of the leg and of the tibia, in the lower part.
The knee is a hinged joint responsible for loading and movement of the body; it is made up of bones, meniscus, ligaments and tendons.
Index
KNEE FUNCTIONS
This joint is designed to perform a number of functions:
- Supports the body in an upright position without the need to work the muscles;
- Helps to lower and raise the body;
- Provides stability;
- Shock absorber function;
- Allows the leg to be twisted;
- Makes walking more efficient;
- Helps to push the body forward.
KNEE BONE
The knee consists of:
- Femur: thigh bone;
- Tibia: shin bone;
- Ball joint: small triangular bone found at the front of the knee
CARTILAGE
There are two types of cartilage in the knee:
- Meniscus: these are crescent-shaped discs that act as a cushion, so that the bones of the knee can move without rubbing directly on each other;
- Articular cartilage: it is found on the femur, on the top of the tibia and on the back of the patella; acts as a shock absorber, helping the bones to move smoothly over each other.
LIGAMENTS
There are several key ligaments, types of connective and fibrous tissues, which connect the bones of the knee; they act as ropes to connect the various bones, promoting stability. Ligaments are divided into:
- Anterior cruciate ligament: prevents hyperextension of the knee by limiting the movements of the tibia;
- Medial collateral ligament: prevents lateral movement of the femur;
- Lateral collateral ligament: same function of the medial collateral;
- Posterior cruciate ligament: prevents the femur from sliding on the tibia and vice versa.
INJURIES
Problems and trauma to this ligament are very common, as it is a frequent point of contact during accidents and injuries and is subject to wear and tear due to its load-bearing nature; the most common injuries are:
- Damage to the anterior cruciate: they are quite common among sportsmen; severe injuries to this ligament usually involve reconstructive surgery;
- Pulling or straining the hamstrings: these two groups of cord-like connective tissues are located in the back of the knee and thigh and connect some of its major muscles;
- Dislocated patella: luxated kneecap is another common condition of accident to the knee; it slides along a groove in the femur as the knee bends. Sometimes, due to various traumatic factors, the kneecap comes out of its seat and dislocates;
- Arthritis: this joint is also a common site for arthritis pain.
Other, less common problems include:
- Fractured patella
- Torn meniscus
- Torn ligament
- Tendon muscle torn
- Gout (a form of arthritis).
And you, did you know the anatomy of this important muscle? Let us know in the comments!
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