9 - Knee Jont Flashcards
What type of joint is the knee joint?
hinge type synovial joint
What movements does the knee joint allow?
Flexion and extension and small amount of medial + lateral rotation
In overview, what articulations form the knee joint?
The patella, femur and tibia
What does it rely on to ensure its stability?
Muscles and ligaments
In specific, what two articulations form the knee joint?
Tibiofemoral and patellofemoral
What is the tibofemoral joint formed from?
Medial and lateral condyles of femur articulating with the tibia
What is the patellofemoral joint formed from?
Anterior, distal portion of the femur articulating with the patella
What is the function of the tibiofemoral joint?
Weightbearing joint of the knee
What is the function of the patellofemoral joint?
Alows the tendon of the quadriceps femoris (main extensor of the knee) to be inserted directly over the knee, increasing the effiency of the muscle.
What are the joint surfaces of the patello and tibio femoral joints lined with?
Hyaline cartilage, enclosed within a single joint vavity
What is formed within the tendon of the quadriceps femoris and why?
The patella is formed inside the tendon of the quadriceps femoris; its presence minimises wear and tear on the tendon.
What are the menisci of the knee joint?
The medial and lateral menisci are fibrocartilage structures
What is the function of the menisci of the knee joint? (2)
To deepen the articular surface of the tibia, thus increasing stability of the joint.To act as shock absorpers
Where do the menisci of the knee attach?
Intercondylar area of the tibia
Give two additional places the medial meniscus is attached to, and why this is significant
the tibial collateral ligament and the joint capsule.Any damage to the tibial collateral ligament results in tearing of the medial meniscus.