Knee anatomy
Although the knee may look like a simple joint, it is actually one of the more complex joints in the body, as well as the largest. A healthy knee moves easily, allowing you to walk, run, turn and kneel without pain. Made up of a complex structure of bones, cartilage, ligaments, muscles and tendons, these elements work together to create a highly flexible joint. Two sets of ligaments in the knee give it its stability: the cruciates and the collateral ligaments.
The cruciate ligaments are named as such because they form a cross in the middle of the knee joint. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) provide stability to the knee joint by preventing the femur from sliding too far forward or backwards, relative to the tibia. The cruciate ligaments also provide some rotational stability, supporting the co-lateral ligaments.
The collateral ligaments lie external to the knee joint on either side. On the inside is the medial collateral ligament (MCL) and on the outside is the lateral collateral ligament (LCL). These two ligaments prevent sideways movement of the knee, and are very important in normal knee function.
The patellar tendon connects the anterior thigh muscles (quads) via the knee-cap (patella) to the shin bone (tibia). This tendon is important as it straightens the knee during walking, and may also rupture in the older patient.
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Important: The information and guidance provided here is general in nature and should not be considered as medical advice in any way. You should always seek detailed advice from a qualified medical practitioner.
