Patellar

Patellar refers to anything related to the patella, also known as the kneecap. The patella is a small, triangular bone located in front of the knee joint. It is one of the few sesamoid bones in the human body, meaning it is embedded within a tendon. The patella is crucial for knee function, as it increases the leverage of the quadriceps muscle and protects the knee joint.

Anatomy

The patella is a flat, triangular bone located at the front of the knee joint. It is embedded within the tendon of the quadriceps muscle, which is the large muscle at the front of the thigh. The patella's posterior surface is smooth and articulates with the femur, or thigh bone, to form the patellofemoral joint. The anterior surface is rough and gives attachment to the patellar ligament.

Function

The primary function of the patella is to increase the leverage of the quadriceps muscle, which is the main muscle responsible for extending the knee. By increasing the angle at which the quadriceps tendon pulls on the tibia, the patella allows the quadriceps to exert more force. The patella also protects the knee joint from physical trauma.

Clinical significance

Injuries and disorders of the patella can lead to pain and impaired mobility. Common conditions include patellar dislocation, in which the patella moves out of its normal position, and patellar tendinitis, an inflammation of the patellar tendon often seen in athletes. Patellar fractures, or breaks in the kneecap, can occur from direct trauma or from the forceful contraction of the quadriceps muscle.

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a common cause of knee pain, particularly among athletes. It is characterized by pain in the front of the knee and around the patella. Treatment typically involves physical therapy and pain management strategies.

See also

• Knee
• Knee pain
• Knee osteoarthritis
• Knee replacement

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