The Knee

Four bones. Four ligaments.
One remarkable joint.

The knee joins the femur, tibia, fibula and patella into a hinge that carries several times body weight with every step. Stability comes from the ligaments; smoothness from cartilage; cushioning from the menisci; and power from the surrounding muscles.

Understanding which of these structures is at fault — and why — is the foundation of every successful treatment plan.

Knee joint anatomy diagram

Common problems

The conditions we see most often.

Osteoarthritis

Gradual loss of the smooth cartilage lining the joint. Presents as pain on loading, morning stiffness, and swelling after activity.

Meniscal tears

Tears of the C-shaped cartilage cushions. Often a twisting injury, but degenerate tears also occur. Clicking, catching and localised pain.

ACL injury

Rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament — usually a non-contact pivoting injury. Immediate swelling, sense of instability.

Patellofemoral pain

Pain at the front of the knee, worse on stairs and after prolonged sitting. Common in runners and adolescents.

Patellar instability

Recurrent kneecap dislocation. Often multifactorial — bony shape, ligament laxity and muscle imbalance.

Cartilage defects

Focal areas of cartilage damage in otherwise healthy joints — an opportunity for modern preservation techniques.

Next step

Not sure what's causing your knee pain?

A single consultation is often all it takes to reach a working diagnosis and treatment plan.

Book a consultation