The Structure of your knee
The knee is a hinge joint that is responsible for weight-bearing and movement. It consists of bones, meniscus, ligaments, and tendons all work together to perform several important functions including: Helping to lower and raise the body, provide stability, act as a shock absorber, allow the twisting of the leg and help propel the body forward.
Bones - The femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and patella (kneecap) make up the bones of the knee. The patella is a small, triangle shaped bone that sits at the front of the knee, within the quadriceps muscle. It is lined with the thickest layer of cartilage in the body because it endures a great deal of force when straightening the knee joint.
Cartilage - There are two types
Meniscus: these are crescent-shaped discs that act as a cushion, or "shock absorber" so that the bones of the knee can move through their range of motion without rubbing directly against each other. The menisci also contain nerves that help improve balance and stability and ensure the correct weight distribution between the femur and tibia.
Articular cartilage: found on the femur, the top of the tibia, and the back of the patella; it is a thin, shiny layer of cartilage. It acts as a shock absorber and helps bones move smoothly over one another.
Ligaments - Ligaments are tough and fibrous tissues; they act like strong wires to connect bones to other bones, preventing too much motion and promoting stability.
ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) and PCL (posterior cruciate ligament)- which stops the Tibia sliding backward and forwards on the Femur and vice versa
MCL (medial collateral ligament) and LCL (lateral collateral ligament)- which prevents side to side movement of the femur.
Tendons - These tough bands of soft tissue provide stability to the joint. They are similar to ligaments, but instead of linking bone to bone, they connect bone to muscle. The largest tendon in the knee is the patellar tendon, which covers the kneecap, runs up the thigh, and attaches to the quadriceps.
Muscles – There are 4 quadriceps that straighten the knee and 3 hamstrings muscles at the back of the thigh that bend the knee. Both of which are vitally important for both your day-to-day activities as well as sports performance
Joint capsule and Bursa
The joint capsule is a fibrous membrane bag that surrounds the knee joint. It is filled with a liquid called synovial fluid, which lubricates and nourishes the joint and this is produced by approximately 14 small fluid-filled sacs called Bursa within the knee joint. They reduce friction between the tissues of the knee and prevent Inflammation.
If you any questions or would like to book a session don’t hesitate to call us on 01285 238240 and we can put you mind at ease.
George Stacey-Stevens
Owner and Physiotherapist at Cirencester Physiotherapy Centre