Knäet

Knäet is the Swedish term for the knee joint, the large hinge joint that connects the thigh to the lower leg. It consists of three bones: the femur, tibia, and patella, with articular cartilage covering the ends, two menisci for shock absorption, and a fibrous capsule reinforced by ligaments.

Key structures include the cruciate ligaments (anterior and posterior) and the collateral ligaments (medial and lateral), which stabilize the knee in various planes. The joint is surrounded by a synovial membrane that produces synovial fluid and may contain bursae and tendons, notably the quadriceps and patellar tendons, which transmit forces during movement. Muscles around the knee, such as the quadriceps and hamstrings, play important roles in stability and propulsion.

Functionally, the knee allows flexion and extension, with limited rotation when flexed. It bears much of the body's weight and absorbs impact during activities such as walking, running, and jumping. Proper alignment, cartilage health, and muscular strength contribute to overall knee function and longevity.

Common conditions affecting knäet include osteoarthritis, meniscal tears, ligament injuries such as ACL ruptures, patellofemoral pain syndrome, tendinopathies, and inflammatory arthritides. Symptoms often include pain, swelling, reduced range of motion, and feelings of instability.

Diagnosis typically combines clinical examination with imaging, such as X-ray or MRI. Treatments range from conservative measures—rest, ice, compression, elevation, physical therapy, weight management, and NSAIDs—to injections and surgical options like arthroscopic repair, ligament reconstruction, or knee replacement in advanced cases.

Note: knäet is the definite form of knä in Swedish, reflecting standard terminology for the joint in medical and everyday language.