The Knee

Of around 400 joints in the human body, the knee joint is the largest and most complicated. The normal range of motion for the knee joint from 0-130°; straighten 120-0°. The knee comprises of bones ,tendons, tendons, cartilages plus a joint capsule. It is a subject to wear and tear and sports injuries are the most common knee problem which can cause sever discomfort and pain.

The knee is made up of four main bones

Patella (kneecap)
The Femur (thigh bone)
The Tibia (shin bone)
Fibula (outer shin bone)

These bones are enclosed in the knee joint capsule. A thick structure that envelopes the knee. It is lined with a special membrane called synovium, which produces a thick liquid called synovial fluid which is necessary to nourish – lubricate and protect.

Other structures include the infrapatellar fat pad and bursa which function as cushions to exterior forces on the knee.

The strength and stability of the knee is provided by ligaments.

2 ligaments are found on either side of the joint.

Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL) – inner surfaces of the femur and the tibia.

Lateral Collateral Ligament (LCL) – This ligament goes from the outer surface of the femur to the head of the fibula.

2 cruciate ligaments:

Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) – The ACL, travels from the anterior (front) of the tibia to the posterior (back) of the femur and prevents the tibia moving forward.

Posterior Cruciate Ligament (PCL)

Due to the complexity of this area, anyone suffering with knee pain should seek professional medical assistance for a diagnosis. A professional will usually be able to diagnose Osgood Schlatters Disease very quickly.