KNEE ANATOMY

The anatomy of the knee appears simple at first glance, but in reality it is complex and subtle.

The structures within the joint space are enclosed by the capsule that 'wraps' the joint. Key structures within the joint space are the cartilage-covered ends of the bones, the cruciate ligaments and the menisci.

Outside of the capsule are supportive ligaments and the muscles that contribute to movement. Although outside of the joint space, they contribute to the function and stability of the knee, and problems in these structures may lead to symptoms, too.