“I have a pair of legs that only an orthopedic surgeon could love.”
—Joe Namath (Former AFL and NFL Quarterback; Hall of Famer)
Function: The knee joint is large and is comprised of two separate joints. One is the union of the large femur bone of the thigh meeting the tibia of the lower leg, also known as the tibiofemoral joint. The other is smaller and is located where the kneecap (patella) and femur meet to make the patellofemoral joint. The fibula, which lies just below the knee joint, helps to foster stability as well. In between the femur and tibia lie the menisci, which promote stabilization of the joint surface as well as shock-absorption. The surfaces at the end of the bones are covered with articular cartilage, which also helps facilitate movement about the knee joint.
The large muscles that run along the front of the thigh are known as the quadriceps. They are a group of four muscles that act in synergy to extend or straighten the knee and provide stability across the knee when weight-bearing activities occur. Supporting the opposite side of the leg, the hamstrings work together to flex or bend the knee. When working in tandem, these large thigh muscles help support the body as it engages in standing, walking, transferring, and other load- and non-load bearing activities of daily living.
Further reinforcement of the knee is provided by a joint capsule. The capsule is comprised of ligaments, and the fibrous tissue helps hold the bones proximal to one another. The major ligaments that run outside (external) the knee and foster stability in the medial and lateral (side to side) directions when stress is applied are known as the collateral ligaments. The cruciate ligaments are located within the knee joint and help reinforce stability in the anterior and posterior (front to back and back to front) directions. A large band of fascia (connective tissue), known as the iliotibial band (ITB) runs along the side of the leg and crosses both the hip and knee joints. The ITB also helps to add stability through the lateral part of the knee. Another important function of the knee is the cushioning that is afforded by structures, such as the menisci and bursae, which are fluid filled sacs, and a synovial membrane that lies in the joint capsule and provides lubrication. These structures provide health to the tibiofemoral and patellofemoral joints.
-excerpt from Dr. Bonander’s book Exercise, Health and Vitality
https://www.amazon.com/Exercise-Health-Vitality-Concise-Science-Based-ebook/dp/B099J2YJ7H
For more information on how to care and rehabilitate the knee, contact Focused Care Rehab