WHAT IS kneecap (patella)?

Kneecap (Patella): Structure, Function, and Common Conditions

The kneecap, also known as the patella, is a small, triangular-shaped bone located at the front of the knee joint. It plays a crucial role in protecting the knee from injury and facilitating smooth knee movement. Let's explore the structure, function, and common conditions associated with the kneecap.

Structure of the Kneecap

The kneecap is a sesamoid bone, meaning it is embedded within a tendon. In the case of the kneecap, it is embedded within the quadriceps tendon, which connects the quadriceps muscles on the front of the thigh to the shin bone (tibia) below the knee.

The kneecap has two surfaces:

- Articular surface: The back (posterior) surface of the kneecap is smooth and covered with cartilage. This surface articulates with the lower end of the thigh bone (femur), forming the patellofemoral joint.

- Non-articular surface: The front (anterior) surface of the kneecap is rough and covered with skin and soft tissues. It provides protection for the underlying structures of the knee.

Function of the Kneecap

The kneecap serves several essential functions:

1. Protection: The kneecap helps protect the knee joint, particularly the patellofemoral joint, from external impacts and injuries.

2. Extension and Flexion: The kneecap acts as a lever arm for the quadriceps muscles, allowing for smoother and more efficient knee extension (straightening) and flexion (bending).

3. Joint Stabilization: The kneecap helps to stabilize the knee joint, particularly during activities that involve twisting or rapid changes in direction.

4. Tracking of the Patellar Tendon: The kneecap helps to keep the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap to the shin bone, in its proper position. This prevents the patellar tendon from dislocating or moving out of place.

Common Conditions Affecting the Kneecap

Several conditions can affect the kneecap, including:

1. Patellar Tendinitis: Inflammation of the patellar tendon, often caused by overuse or repetitive activities that strain the knee.

2. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner's Knee): A common condition that causes pain around the kneecap, often due to overuse, muscle imbalances, or misalignment of the kneecap.

3. Dislocation: The kneecap can dislocate, usually to the outer side of the knee, often as a result of a direct blow or trauma to the knee.

4. Fracture: The kneecap can fracture due to a high-energy impact, such as a fall from a significant height or a motor vehicle accident.

5. Osteoarthritis: A degenerative joint disease that can affect the patellofemoral joint, causing pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility.

6. Chondromalacia Patellae: Softening and damage to the cartilage on the back of the kneecap, leading to pain and stiffness.

Treatment and Prevention

Treatment for kneecap conditions depends on the specific diagnosis. It may involve conservative measures such as rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles, and medication to relieve pain and inflammation. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

Preventing kneecap problems includes:

- Maintaining a healthy weight

- Regular exercise and strengthening of the knee muscles

- Proper warm-up before physical activities

- Wearing appropriate footwear for different activities

- Avoiding excessive or repetitive knee stress

By understanding the structure, function, and common conditions affecting the kneecap, individuals can take proactive steps to maintain knee health and prevent injuries. Consulting a healthcare professional is essential if knee pain or discomfort persists or worsens.