Skip Ribbon Commands
Skip to main content
Menu

Basic Anatomy of the Healthy Knee

Basic Anatomy of the Healthy Knee - What it is

The knee is a complex hinge joint. It is made up of multiple ligaments, soft tissue and three bones. The bones are the lower end of the femur (thigh bone), the upper end of the tibia (leg bone), and the patella (kneecap).

The inside of the knee is called the medial side and the outside of the knee is called the lateral side (see diagram). Various ligaments within and around the knee help to stabilise the knee during daily activities. Within the knee joint itself, the bones are lined with cartilage, which is a tissue that is required for cushioning of weight-bearing forces and for lubrication within the joint. Between the femur and tibia lie the menisci on both the medial and lateral sides. The menisci are required for shock absorption and assist in stabilising the knee.

The patella, commonly referred to as the “kneecap”, is a large bone in front of the knee. It is embedded within the lower end of the quadriceps muscle, and functions to improve the efficiency of the quadriceps muscle.

The knee can normally be moved from 0 degrees of flexion (completely straight) to about 130 to 150 degrees of flexion (completely bent, e.g. when squatting).

In osteoarthritis (OA), the range of motion of the knee will be gradually reduced over time as the condition worsens.


Basic Anatomy of the Healthy Knee - Symptoms

Basic Anatomy of the Healthy Knee - How to prevent?

Basic Anatomy of the Healthy Knee - Causes and Risk Factors

Basic Anatomy of the Healthy Knee - Diagnosis

Basic Anatomy of the Healthy Knee - Treatments

Basic Anatomy of the Healthy Knee - Preparing for surgery

Basic Anatomy of the Healthy Knee - Post-surgery care

Basic Anatomy of the Healthy Knee - Other Information

The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

TOP
Discover articles,videos, and guides afrom Singhealth's resources across the web. These information are collated, making healthy living much easier for everyone.