Lower Limb Anatomy and Biomechanics

📋 Course Outline

1. Knee joint anatomy, stability, and ligamentous structures
2. Muscles acting on the knee and their functions
3. Hip joint movements and their biomechanical constraints
4. Knee joint movements and meniscal-ligament interactions
5. Tibio-fibular joints anatomy, ligaments, and mobility
6. Foot osteology and plantar arches for weight distribution
7. Ankle joint ligaments, movements, and injury mechanisms
8. Muscles acting on the ankle and foot with movement functions

📖 1. Knee joint anatomy, stability, and ligamentous structures

🔑 Key Concepts & Definitions

• Fémoro-tibial articulation : a hinge joint formed by the femoral condyles and the tibial plateaus, characterized by plane articular surfaces that are non-congruent, meaning they do not fit perfectly together.

• Fémoro-patellaire articulation : a joint between the femoral trochlea and the posterior surface of the patella, also with plane surfaces that are non-congruent, resulting in a less precise fit.

• Ligament croisé antérieur : a ligament that provides stability during knee flexion, preventing anterior displacement of the tibia relative to the femur.

• Ligament croisé postérieur : a ligament that stabilizes the knee by preventing posterior displacement of the tibia, especially in flexion.

📝 Essential Points