Knee cartilage is a specialized tissue that protects and cushions the bones within the knee joint. Specifically, it refers to two types of cartilage found in the knee: articular cartilage and meniscus cartilage. The knee joint is where the shinbone (tibia) meets the thighbone (femur) and kneecap (patella).
Types of Knee Cartilage
There are two main types of cartilage in the knee:
- Articular Cartilage: This cartilage covers the ends of the femur (thighbone), tibia (shinbone), and the back of the patella (kneecap). Its primary function is to provide a smooth, low-friction surface for joint movement.
- Meniscus Cartilage: These are two C-shaped pads of cartilage located between the femur and tibia. They act as shock absorbers and help to stabilize the knee joint.
Functions of Knee Cartilage
The cartilage in the knee serves several vital functions:
- Cushioning: Cartilage absorbs impact and reduces stress on the bones during activities like walking, running, and jumping.
- Friction Reduction: Articular cartilage provides a smooth surface that allows the bones to glide easily against each other, minimizing friction and wear.
- Stability: The menisci contribute to the stability of the knee joint by deepening the socket where the femur and tibia meet.
- Load Distribution: The menisci help distribute weight evenly across the knee joint, preventing excessive stress on any one area.
Summary of Knee Cartilage
| Type | Location | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Articular | Covers the ends of the femur, tibia, and back of the patella | Provides a smooth, low-friction surface for joint movement, cushioning |
| Meniscus | Between the femur and tibia (two C-shaped pads) | Shock absorption, joint stabilization, load distribution |
