Anatomy and Biomechanics of the Knee

Abstract

The knee joint, as the largest synovial joint in the human body, functions as a pivotal component for lower extremity motion and load bearing. Its intricate anatomy and biomechanics are essential for maintaining stability, mobility, and overall limb function. This chapter will elaborate on the anatomical structures, biomechanical principles, and clinical implications pertinent to the knee, providing a comprehensive framework for board candidates in orthopedics and sports medicine. The knee joint's stability is a product of interacting factors, including ligaments, muscular forces, bony structure, and load. The joint, one of the body's largest and most complex, involves four bones and an extensive network of ligaments and muscles. These elements work together to facilitate movement and bear weight while maintaining stability. Understanding these components is crucial for comprehending knee function and the potential for injury. The interplay between the static and dynamic elements is particularly important in biomechanics.