What is the Knee Joint?

Written By Nick Stamatiou

Description:

Description: The knee joint, a vital hinge joint in the human body, is renowned for its role in supporting mobility, stability, and weight-bearing activities. It connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone), allowing for a wide range of

The knee joint, a vital hinge joint in the human body, is renowned for its role in supporting mobility, stability, and weight-bearing activities. It connects the femur (thigh bone) to the tibia (shin bone), allowing for a wide range of motion while maintaining structural integrity. Understanding the knee joint's anatomy and function is essential for appreciating its significance in our daily lives.

Anatomy of the Knee Joint:

The knee joint comprises several essential components:

  1. Femur: The thigh bone's lower end, featuring rounded condyles that articulate with the tibia.

  2. Tibia: The shin bone, forming the lower part of the knee joint.

  3. Patella: The kneecap, a sesamoid bone located within the patellar tendon. It protects and enhances the knee's mechanical advantage.

  4. Ligaments: Strong, fibrous bands that stabilize the knee joint, including the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), medial collateral ligament (MCL), and lateral collateral ligament (LCL).

  5. Menisci: Two wedge-shaped cartilage structures (medial and lateral menisci) that cushion and stabilize the joint while enhancing load distribution.

Function of the Knee Joint:

The knee joint plays a pivotal role in various activities, including:

  • Walking: Facilitating the flexion and extension of the leg during each step.

  • Running: Absorbing and transferring forces generated during running motions.

  • Jumping: Providing the power and stability needed for jumping and landing.

  • Bending and Straightening: Enabling movements like squatting, kneeling, and standing up.

  • Rotation: Allowing for limited rotation of the lower leg.

Common Knee Joint Issues:

Several common issues can affect the knee joint:

  1. Osteoarthritis: A degenerative joint condition that can result in pain, stiffness, and reduced joint function.

  2. Knee Ligament Injuries: Injuries to the ACL, PCL, MCL, or LCL can lead to instability and discomfort.

  3. Meniscus Tears: Tears in the menisci can cause pain and hinder joint movement.

  4. Tendonitis: Inflammation of tendons around the knee, often due to overuse or injury.

Nick Stamatiou

Nick has a strong interest in sports and musculoskeletal physiotherapy and is motivated to help people reach their desired goals and to achieve their full potential.

His experience includes:

  • Sports and musculoskeletal physiotherapist in a private practice setting

  • Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation inpatient physiotherapist at Brisbane Private Hospital

  • Clinical Reformer and Mat-work Pilates instructor

  • Football gameday physiotherapist

While Nick is skilled in managing all areas of musculoskeletal physiotherapy, he has a particular interest in the rehabilitation of muscle strains, hip, knee and lower back conditions. Nick offers dry needling, massage and joint mobilisation to compliment exercise prescription.

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