Knee Flashcards
What are the important bony structures of the knee region?
Femur, Tibia, Fibula, Patella
Key bony structures include the femur, tibia, fibula, and patella, each with specific features that contribute to knee function.
What are the main soft tissue structures related to the knee joint?
Ligaments, Menisci, Joint capsule, Bursae
These structures provide stability, mobility, and cushioning for the knee joint.
List the main muscles causing flexion at the knee joint.
- Hamstrings
- Biceps femoris
- Semimembranosus
- Semitendinosus
- Gastrocnemius
- Gracilis
- Sartorius
These muscles work together to flex the knee, allowing for movement.
What is the anatomical function of the patella?
Acts as an anatomical pulley for the quadriceps muscle
The patella enhances the leverage of the quadriceps during knee extension.
Define the knee joint.
Synovial bicondylar joint, complex hinge joint
This classification indicates the knee’s ability to perform flexion, extension, and limited rotation.
What are the two types of ligaments in the knee joint?
- Extracapsular ligaments
- Intracapsular ligaments
These ligaments provide structural support and stability to the knee joint.
Fill in the blank: The _______ is a strong, thick fibrous band extending from the apex of the patella to the tibial tuberosity.
Patellar ligament
The patellar ligament is a critical structure for knee stability.
What is the function of the menisci in the knee joint?
Provide congruence and shock absorption
The menisci help distribute weight and reduce friction during knee movements.
True or False: The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) prevents posterior displacement of the tibia relative to the femur.
False
The ACL primarily prevents anterior displacement of the tibia.
What are the main movements of the knee joint?
- Flexion
- Extension
- Medial rotation
- Lateral rotation
These movements allow for a range of activities, from walking to jumping.
What is a Baker’s cyst?
Fluid-filled swelling that develops at the back of the knee
It often occurs due to conditions that cause knee joint swelling, such as arthritis.
What is the ‘terrible triad’ in knee injuries?
Tears of the cruciate ligament, tibial collateral ligament, medial meniscus
This injury is often associated with sports that involve lateral movements.
What nerve innervates the knee joint?
Femoral nerve, Tibial nerve, Common fibular nerve
These nerves provide sensory and motor functions to the knee.
What is patellar tendinitis also known as?
Jumper’s knee
This condition is common among athletes involved in jumping sports.
What is the main function of the popliteus muscle?
Unlocks the knee from full extension
The popliteus muscle allows for rotation of the tibia and initiates flexion.