Knee injuries (orthopaedics)

Anatomy

The knee joint consists of the upper leg/thigh bone (femur) and the lower leg/shin bone (tibia). The ends of these are covered with a layer of cartilage so that the knee moves smoothly. This cartilage has a shock absorbing effect that absorbs large forces. The capsule of the knee is lined with mucous membrane that ensures the smooth movement of the knee.

At the front of the knee is the kneecap (patella). The kneecap provides force distribution when bending and stretching the knee. Between the bone ends of the knee joint are the inner and outer meniscus. The meniscus provides shock absorption, stability and distribution of synovial fluid in the knee.

The knee ligaments provide stability. The cruciate ligaments run down the middle of the knee. There is an anterior and a posterior cruciate ligament and they primarily provide rotational stability. The lateral ligaments of the knee (collateral ligaments) on the inside and outside of the knee provide lateral stability.

Diagnosis

The orthopaedic surgeon makes a diagnosis through a thorough examination with imaging (radiology) if necessary. You can visit our specialists for very different knee problems. In people who get knee pain during sports, wake up at night with pain, or have starting problems, it is often the result of wear and tear on the knee. With pain after a rotational movement, sagging of the knee or blocking symptoms, there is usually an acute problem.