Patellofemoral joint

The patellofemoral joint is not a fixed articulation like most of the other joints in the body, but rather instead it is the area where the patella glides in the underlying femoral groove.

The patellofemoral 'compartment'

The patellofemoral joint is one of the three 'compartments' of the knee, considered in this way because disorders may affect just this one part of the knee without affecting the other two.

The other two compartments are the two tibiofemoral compartments between tibia and femur.

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Patellofemoral joint trauma

The patellofemoral joint may be damaged by a blow to the front of the knee, or by a traction force along the tendon above and below.

A blow may split the soft articular cartilage, while either force may result in a bony fracture of the patella.

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Investigation of the patellofemoral joint

Special X-ray views are needed to fully assess the patella.

• Quote from peer-reviewed paper:

  "....Assessment of patellofemoral symptoms must include ruling out "major ligament instability" while the "“patellar grind” test has been described as a confirmatory test for patellar chondromalacia. Often imaging studies are indicated ...and... may include: AP, Lateral, Long Leg Standing, Insall-Salvanti, Merchant, and or Sunrise views. In selected cases the MRI may be indicated...."

  Citation: Manske RC, Davies GJ. EXAMINATION OF THE PATELLOFEMORAL JOINT. Int J Sports Phys Ther. 2016 Dec;11(6):831-853. PMID: 27904788; PMCID: PMC5095938.

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