Arcuate popliteal ligament

Arcuate popliteal ligament
Right knee-joint. Posterior view. (Arcuate popliteal ligament labeled at center right.)
Right knee-joint, flexed, from the front. (Arcuate popliteal ligament not labeled, but region is visible.)
Details
Identifiers
Latin	Ligamentum popliteum arcuatum
TA98
TH	{{#property:P1694}}
TE	{{#property:P1693}}
FMA	{{#property:P1402}}
Anatomical terminology

The Arcuate popliteal ligament (Ligamentum popliteum arcuatum) is a thick and broad fibrous band located in the knee joint. It is one of the important ligaments that provide stability to the knee joint.

Anatomy

The arcuate popliteal ligament originates from the apex of the head of the fibula and extends upwards and medially, crossing the posterior aspect of the knee joint. It then attaches to the intercondylar area of the tibia and the posterior part of the joint capsule.

Function

The arcuate popliteal ligament plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability of the knee joint. It prevents excessive movement and helps in the smooth functioning of the knee joint.

Clinical significance

Injury to the arcuate popliteal ligament can lead to instability of the knee joint, causing pain and difficulty in movement. Treatment usually involves rest, physiotherapy, and in severe cases, surgery may be required.

See also

• Knee
• Ligament
• Fibula
• Tibia