Genoux

Genoux is the French plural noun for the knee joint, with the singular genou. The term is used in anatomy and everyday language to refer to the pair of joints connecting the thigh to the lower leg and to the kneecaps collectively.

Anatomy: The knee comprises the distal femur, proximal tibia, and the patella, forming the tibiofemoral and patellofemoral joints. A capsule encloses synovial fluid. Stability is provided by four main ligaments: the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL), the medial collateral ligament (MCL), and the lateral collateral ligament (LCL). The menisci (medial and lateral) cushion the joint, while articular cartilage covers the ends of the bones. The knee also contains bursae and tendons, notably the quadriceps and patellar tendons.

Function: The genoux bear body weight and enable movement through flexion and extension, with limited rotation when the leg is flexed. They absorb impact during walking, running, and jumping and adapt to varying activities and terrains.

Clinical significance: The knees are commonly affected by osteoarthritis, meniscal tears, ACL injuries, patellofemoral pain syndrome, tendinopathy, and bursitis. Management ranges from physical therapy and analgesics to injections or surgery, depending on the condition and severity.

Etymology: Genou derives from Latin genu. In French, the plural genoux is formed by adding -oux and is used for both anatomical knees and plural references in everyday speech.