Condyle of femur

Condyle of Femur

The Condyle of femur is a crucial anatomical structure found in the human body. It is part of the femur, or thigh bone, which is the longest and strongest bone in the human body. The condyles are the two large, rounded protrusions at the lower end of the femur that connect the femur to the tibia, the second largest bone located in the lower leg.

Structure

The femur has two condyles, the medial condyle and the lateral condyle, which are located at the distal end of the femur. These condyles are almost equal in size and form a joint with the tibia, known as the knee joint. The medial condyle is larger and extends more medially, while the lateral condyle is smaller and less prominent.

Function

The primary function of the condyles of the femur is to facilitate movement at the knee joint. They provide a smooth, rounded surface for the tibia to move against, allowing for flexion and extension of the leg. Additionally, the condyles also serve as attachment points for various ligaments and muscles that contribute to the stability and movement of the knee.

Clinical significance

Damage or disease affecting the condyles of the femur can lead to significant mobility issues and pain. Conditions such as osteoarthritis can cause the cartilage covering the condyles to wear away, leading to bone-on-bone contact that can be extremely painful. Fractures of the condyles, often resulting from trauma such as falls or car accidents, can also lead to severe pain and disability.

See also

• Femur
• Knee joint
• Medial condyle
• Lateral condyle
• Osteoarthritis