arthrology of the knee Flashcards
fully classify the knee joint
synovial, complex, modified hinge
describe the borders of the fibrous capsule of the knee
laterally- LCL, ITB
medially- MCL, sartorius, gracilis
anteriorly- quadriceps and tendons
posteriorly- hamstrings, popliteus
what is the function of the bursae?
reduce friction between moving surfaces
what are the 5 functions of the menisci?
-improve synovial fluid distribution
-absorbs shock
-distribute weight
-improves congruency between tibia and femur
-participates in the locking mechanism
what are the main roles of the collateral ligaments?
limit varus(LCL) and valgus (MCL) force
limits hyperextension of the knee
what is the function of the ACL
limits anterior draw of the tibia on the femur
what is the function of the PCL
limits posterior draw of the tibia on the femur
what is the function of the transverse ligament
connects the 2 menisci anteriorly
what is the function of the ligamentum patellae
connects apex of patella to tibial tuberosity
what is the role of the locking mechanism (screw home)
acts to provide stability of the knee in an extended position, while improving efficiency in terms of energy use
what factors contribute to the locking mechanism of the knee?
-mismatch in sizes of medial and lateral femoral condyles
-tension of ligaments in extended position
- menisci pushed forwards by moving femur, acts as a wedge between the bones
at what degrees of extension does the locking mechanism occur?
last 20 degrees of extension
compare the shapes of the medial and lateral menisci
medial is more C shaped, whilel ateral is more O shaped
the medial meniscus is broader posteriorly than anteriorly, but lateral meniscus is equal width all the way around
