Anatomy of the Knee Joint

Michael Feltner

This web site was completed as my project in SPME 330, Functional Anatomy and Kinesiology, at Pepperdine University during the fall semester of 2005.

The purpose of my web site is to provide detailed information regarding the musculoskeletal anatomy of the knee joint..  Additionally, the web site provides information regarding articular anatomy of the knee, movement that occur at the knee, and resistance training exercises for the muscle groups that span the knee.  Links to other sites that provide informative and interesting insights related to knee function and injuries to the knee joint also are provided..

Use the links below to navigate the web site:

• Articular Anatomy - This section will provide information regarding the articular anatomy of the knee joint.  Specifically, it will cover the following:

1. Osseous anatomy
2. Ligaments and connective tissue structures of the knee
3. Cartilaginous structures of the knee
4. Bursae found at the knee joint
5. Other special or unique anatomical features of the knee

• Movements - This section will detail all movements that occur at the articulations of the knee joint.
• Muscle Attachments - The section provides the attachments (also referred to as the origin and insertion) of all muscles that span the knee joint.  Additionally, images of the muscles and their attachment sites on the bones of the lower extremity are provided..
• Exercises - Now that we know the principal movements that occur at the knee and the muscles that create these movements, how can we increase the strength of these muscles.  The resistance training exercises documented on this page provide a great place to start!
• Supplemental Material - Want to learn more about the knee, here are some great links other web sites on the anatomy and function of the knee, plus on common injuries to the knee joint.
• References - This work wasn't all mine, this is where I give credit where credit is due.

If you have any questions or comments, email me!