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THE KNEE

The knee is a hinge joint that connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia), allowing primarily flexion and extension with slight rotation. It also involves the patella (kneecap), which protects the joint and improves leverage for the quadriceps muscle. Key stabilizing structures include the anterior and posterior cruciate ligaments (ACL and PCL), which control forward and backward movement, and the medial and lateral collateral ligaments (MCL and LCL), which provide side-to-side stability. Two menisci (medial and lateral) act as shock absorbers and help distribute weight evenly across the joint. Muscles like the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles support movement and joint stability. The knee plays a critical role in walking, jumping, and overall lower limb function.

The knee joint is the largest and one of the most complex joints in the body, connecting three main bones: the femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and patella (kneecap). It is classified as a hinge joint, primarily allowing flexion and extension, with a small degree of rotation to aid in movement and stability. The femur and tibia form the main articulation, while the patella sits in front of the joint within the quadriceps tendon, protecting the knee and enhancing the muscle's mechanical efficiency. The surfaces of the bones are covered in articular cartilage to reduce friction and absorb shock. Between the femur and tibia lie two crescent-shaped cartilage structures called menisci, which provide cushioning and help distribute weight. The structure of the knee allows it to support body weight during dynamic activities such as walking, running, jumping, and squatting, while also maintaining stability and alignment.
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