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Learn about the complex knee joint structure and its crucial role in supporting body weight, mobility, and movement. Explore the bones involved, such as the femur, tibia, fibula, and patella, and their functions in knee mechanics. Discover how the patella enhances knee extension and flexion with minimal force, preventing overuse and traumatic injuries.
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Intro • The knee joint is the most complex joint in the body • Most movements depend on the knee for support and mobility • Supports majority of body’s weight • At risk for overuse and traumatic injuries
Bones • The knee is made up of 3 major bones • Tibia (lower leg) • Fibula (lower leg) • Femur (upper leg) • Patella (knee cap)
Femur • Longest bone in the body • Distal end of bone has 2 rounded prominences called Condyles • One is medial & one is lateral • These allow the knee to roll and spin on top of the tibia • Tibial Plateau – the flat top of the tibia • This the tibiofemoral joint
Patella (kneecap) – rides in the groove of the distal end of the femur • This is called the patellofemoral joint • The role of the patella give greater mechanical advantage in the extension of knee • Allows flexion and extension with less force from quadricep • Retropatellar surface – the back of the patella with a thick layer of articular cartilage