Anatomy of the Knee
Before we can explain why knee injuries and pain are so common, we must first describe the anatomy of the knee. Commonly referred to as a “hinge” joint, the knee is made up of three major bones: the tibia (shinbone), femur (thighbone), and patella (kneecap). The patella protects the front of the knee joint while the other two bones connect to the joint from the top (femur) and bottom (tibia). If you were to remove the patella, you would see bones covered in cartilage, a protective layer of hardened tissue that allows the bones to move smoothly.
You would also see two thick pads of cartilage between the tibia and femur called the menisci. These act as protective cushions around the condyles, or protrusions at the end of the femur bone. Without these pads of cartilage, the tibia and femur bones would wear down from rubbing against each other frequently.
All of these bones are connected to one another thanks in large part to cruciate ligaments. If you’ve ever heard someone say they “tore their ACL, PCL, or MCL,” they’re referring to the anterior cruciate, posterior cruciate, and medial collateral ligaments. These ligaments are strong bands that prevent dangerous movements backward and forward, and they limit the knee’s rotation. They also keep the knee attached to the tibia and femur.
Why Is The Knee So Vulnerable To Injuries?
When you consider the anatomy of the knee, it’s not hard to understand why this joint is so vulnerable to injuries. Still, we’ll explain. To start, the knee supports a great deal of body weight. Even when you’re performing simple, everyday movements such as walking, standing, or sitting, that puts a lot of stress on the knees. Now, think about the times you run, jump, or carry heavy objects. The knees are being tasked with supporting double or triple the amount of weight they’re used to. If the bones themselves don’t become damaged, the ligaments surely will if improper movements and unnecessary stress is put on the knees.
Although it may be a little easier to come back from a ligament tear in the knee, it’s much harder to come back from damage caused by arthritis. This degenerative condition wears away protective layers of cartilage. Over time, pain and inflammation develop, making it difficult for most individuals to be active. Regardless, it’ important people with arthritis continue to move to ensure proper blood circulation and the transportation of oxygen and other essential nutrients.
If you’re suffering from chronic knee pain due to an injury or degenerative condition like arthritis, call Tulsa Pain Consultants today! We will work with you to develop a treatment regimen that addresses all facets of your chronic knee pain. Don’t live in pain any longer, call today.
Tulsa Pain Consultants is a pain management practice in Oklahoma that specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of chronic pain. We are dedicated to helping those who are suffering find the relief they deserve. Our team uses a balanced approach by incorporating minimally invasive, outpatient procedures, complementary and alternative medicine, and medication to help patients take control of their pain. Call 918-742-7030 or click here to Request an Appointment to meet with one of our talented pain management specialists today!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.