Knee joint

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Patellofemoral joint

- Synovial

Functional classification = gliding

- provides mechanical adv to quadriceps by increasing knee extension

- VMO impt in stabilisation of patella during extension to pull medially

Tibiofemoral joint

Synovial

'Modified hinge' - some rotation when knee in flexion, automatically occurs during full extension (locking)

Articulations improved by meniscus (fibrocartilage)

Stability provided by LCL, MCL, ACL and PCL ligaments and ITB + Quadriceps

Femoral condyles - medial condyle (longer) continues to move during extension when lateral condyle has stopped. This results in medial rotation of femur @ hyperextension. To unlock the femur must laterally rotate, done by popliteus

Bursa - pockets of synovial fluid that facilitate movement

Innervation - tibial (hamstrings + knee joint), femoral (quadriceps)

Vessels - branches of femoral, popliteal, ant + post tibial