Knee problems are a common issue affecting people of all ages and activity levels. The knee, being one of the largest and most complex joints in the body, is prone to various injuries and conditions.
The knee joint is composed of:
- Bones: The knee is made up of four bones. The femur (thighbone) is the bone connecting the hip to the knee. The tibia (shinbone) connects the knee to the ankle. The patella (kneecap) is the small bone in front of the knee and rides on the knee joint as the knee bends. The fibula is a shorter and thinner bone running parallel to the tibia on its outside. The joint acts like a hinge but with some rotation.
- Cartilage: Including the meniscus, which acts as a cushion between the femur and tibia.
- Ligaments: Crucial for knee stability, including the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL).
- Tendons: Connect muscles to bones and facilitate movement.
- Synovial Membrane: Produces fluid to lubricate the knee.