The Function and Anatomy of the Knee
June 29th, 2009
A Guide to Understanding the Functioning of the Knee
A joint is made of two or more bones connected by strong bands called ligament. Our largest joints are our knees. The knee is essentially made up of three parts:
The patella, which is better-known as the kneecap.
The tibia is the upper end of the shin bone.
The patella is commonly known as the kneecap.
The long muscles located on the anterior of the thigh (quadriceps) play a major part in strengthening the knee.
The surface of bones that touch each other inside a joint is covered with articular cartilage. This is a smooth substance that cushions the bones.
Lubrication is provided by the synovial membrane, which is a smooth tissue liner that covers all of the surfaces in the knee. This lubrication keeps the ends of the joints from grinding against each other.
How is Knee Pain Caused?
Sometimes cartilage just gets worn out. When it does, the bones rub against each other and cause friction, swelling, and pain.
This is often caused by a trauma or injury to the knee, which leads to osteoarthritis. The lack of cartilage between the bones means there is nothing there to absorb shock. This is a very stressful situation that causes a lot of pain.
Click here to learn more about total knee replacement.
Ways to Treat Knee Pain
Steroidal and non-steroidal anti-inflammatories can be used to ease knee pain. Braces are helpful, as are cortisone injections and physical therapy. However, if you have tried all of these without success, you may seriously want to consider knee surgery. It will put an end to your having to limit your activities due to knee pain.
Knee replacement surgery was done for the first time in 1968, and it has been a popular solution to knee pain ever since. It is typically successful and results in the relief of pain and the restoration of knee function. More than a quarter of a million Americans undergo knee replacement surgery every year.
Click here to learn more about partial knee replacement surgery.
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