Knäregionen

Knäregionen, meaning the knee region, refers to the anatomical area around the knee joint. It includes the distal femur, proximal tibia, patella, articular cartilage, menisci, ligaments, tendons, muscles, bursae, and nearby vessels and nerves. The knee is a major weight-bearing joint that enables flexion and extension, with a limited rotational component when flexed. The region is stabilized by both static structures and surrounding musculature.

Key anatomical features are two joints: the tibiofemoral joint and the patellofemoral joint. The bones involved are the femur, tibia, and patella (the fibula lies adjacent). The menisci (medial and lateral) provide shock absorption and stability. Major ligaments are the ACL, PCL, MCL, and LCL. The quadriceps tendon and patellar ligament transmit forces across the front of the knee, while the outer capsule and synovial lining surround the joint; several bursae reduce friction.

Biomechanics: the knee primarily moves as a hinge with flexion and extension; in flexion there is an associated rotation of the tibia. Muscle action from the quadriceps, hamstrings, and gastrocnemius stabilizes and guides movement, and ligaments plus the menisci contribute to alignment and load distribution.

Common conditions include knee osteoarthritis, ligament injuries (notably ACL tears), meniscal tears, patellofemoral pain syndrome, tendinopathies (patellar and quadriceps), and bursitis. Symptoms often include pain, swelling, reduced range of motion, instability, or mechanical symptoms such as locking. Diagnosis combines physical examination with imaging, typically X-ray and magnetic resonance imaging. Treatment ranges from physical therapy and activity modification to injections and surgical options including ACL reconstruction, meniscal repair or partial meniscectomy, and total knee replacement in advanced disease.