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 natomy of the Knee
The bones of the knee, the femur and the tibia , meet to form a hinge joint. The joint is protected in front by the patella (kneecap). The knee joint is cushioned by articular cartilage that covers the ends of the tibia and femur, as well as the underside of the patella. The lateral meniscus and medial meniscus are pads of cartilage that further cushion the joint, acting as shock absorbers between the bones.
Ligaments help to stabilize the knee. The collateral ligaments run along the sides of the knee and limit sideways motion. The anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, connects the tibia to the femur at the center of the knee. Its function is to limit rotation and forward motion of the tibia. (A damaged ACL is replaced in a procedure known as an ACL Reconstruction.) The posterior cruciate ligament, or PCL (located just behind the ACL) limits backward motion of the tibia.
These components of your knee, along with the muscles of your leg, work together to manage the stress your knee receives as you walk, run and jump.
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 ovement of the knee
The main muscles that move the knee joint are the quadriceps and hamstring muscles. The quadriceps attaches to the patella, and the patellar tendon connects this muscle to the front of the tibia. When the quadricep muscles contract the knee extends. In contrast, when the hamstring muscles contract, they pull the knee into flexion.
 reatments for Knee Pain
Treatment of knee pain depends entirely on the cause of the problem. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that you understand the cause of your symptoms before embarking on a treatment program. If you are unsure of your diagnosis, or the severity of your condition, you should seek medical advice before beginning any treatment plan.
Some common treatments for knee pain are listed here. Not all of these treatments are appropriate for every condition, but they may be helpful in your situation.
- Rest
The first treatment for most common conditions that cause knee pain is to rest the joint, and allow the acute inflammation to subside. Often this is the only step needed to relieve knee pain. If the symptoms are severe, crutches may be helpful as well.
- Ice and Heat Application
Ice packs and heat pads are among the most commonly used treatments for knee pain. So which one is the right one to use, ice or heat? And how long should the ice or heat treatments last? Read on for more information about ice and heat treatment.
- Stretching
Stretching the muscles and tendons that surround the joint can help with some causes of knee pain. A good routine should be established, and following some specific suggestions will help you on your way.
- Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is an important aspect of treatment of almost all orthopedic conditions. Physical therapists use different modalities to increase strength, regain mobility, and help return patients to their pre-injury level of activity.
- Anti-Inflammatory Medication
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, commonly referred to as NSAID's, are some of the most commonly prescribed medications, especially for patients with knee pain caused by problems such as arthritis, bursitis, and tendentious.
- Cortisone injections
Cortisone is a powerful medication that treats inflammation, and inflammation is a common problem in patients with knee pain. Discuss with your doctor the possible benefits of a cortisone injection for your condition.
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