Hüftkopf

Hüftkopf is the German term for the femoral head, the uppermost part of the femur, or thigh bone. It is a spherical structure that articulates with the acetabulum, a cup-shaped socket in the pelvis, to form the hip joint. This ball-and-socket joint allows for a wide range of motion, including flexion, extension, abduction, adduction, rotation, and circumduction of the leg. The Hüftkopf is covered by articular cartilage, which reduces friction and absorbs shock during movement. A ligament called the ligamentum teres femoris also attaches to the Hüftkopf, providing some stability to the joint. The Hüftkopf is a critical component of the hip joint, and its integrity is essential for proper mobility and weight-bearing. Fractures or other damage to the Hüftkopf can significantly impair hip function and require medical intervention, often involving surgical repair or replacement of the joint.