Lesson
Ligaments and Menisci of the Knee
Ligaments:
-Medial (tibial) and Lateral (fibular) Collateral Ligaments
In ‘genu valgus’ (tibia further from midline than femur) greater demand is made on medial ligament
-Anterior (ACL) and Posterior (PCL) Cruciate Ligaments
[ACLrestricts anterior and medial displacement; PCL restricts posterior and lateral displacement)
The (tensile) strength of ligaments can be reduced by torsional forces; exercise may increase strength slightly.
Patella (knee cap)
Menisci
Role:
Increase congruence between femur & tibia
Weight bearing
Shock absorption
Aid in lubrication
Involved in ‘locking’ mechanism of knee
STRAIN mainly from rotation