Knee joint
Knee Joint
The Knee Joint (pronunciation: /ni: dʒɔɪnt/) is a hinge type synovial joint, which connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia). It is one of the largest and most complex joints in the human body.
Etymology
The term "knee" comes from the Old English word "cneo," which has its roots in Proto-Germanic "knewam" and Proto-Indo-European "g(e)neu," meaning "knee" or "to bend." The term "joint" comes from the Latin "iunctus," meaning "joined."
Anatomy of the Knee Joint
The knee joint consists of three parts:
- The Femoropatellar Joint: This is where the femur (thigh bone) and patella (kneecap) meet.
- The Medial Tibiofemoral Joint: This is where the medial condyle of the femur and the medial condyle of the tibia meet.
- The Lateral Tibiofemoral Joint: This is where the lateral condyle of the femur and the lateral condyle of the tibia meet.
The knee joint is surrounded by a joint capsule with ligaments strapping the inside and outside of the joint (collateral ligaments) as well as crossing within the joint (cruciate ligaments). These ligaments provide stability and strength to the knee joint.
Function of the Knee Joint
The knee joint plays a crucial role in movement related to walking, running, jumping and turning. It allows the leg to bend and straighten, providing the force needed for motion and also acting as a shock absorber.
Related Terms
- Arthritis: A condition that causes inflammation and pain in the joints, including the knee.
- Meniscus: A piece of cartilage that provides a cushion between the femur and tibia.
- Ligament: A short band of tough, flexible, fibrous connective tissue that connects two bones or cartilages or holds together a joint.
- Tendon: A flexible but inelastic cord of strong fibrous collagen tissue attaching a muscle to a bone.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Knee joint
- Wikipedia's article - Knee joint
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