Kneecap
Kneecap
The kneecap, also known as the patella, is a thick, circular-triangular bone which articulates with the femur (thigh bone) and covers and protects the anterior articular surface of the knee joint.
Pronunciation
- IPA: /ˈniː.kæp/
Etymology
The term "kneecap" is derived from the Old English cneo (knee) and cap, meaning "covering". The scientific term "patella" is Latin for "small dish", due to its shape.
Function
The kneecap serves to protect the knee joint and also provides a mechanical advantage to the muscles of the thigh. It is attached to the tendon of the quadriceps femoris muscle, which contracts to extend the knee. The kneecap increases the leverage that the tendon can exert on the femur by increasing the angle at which it acts.
Related Terms
- Femur: The thigh bone, with which the kneecap articulates.
- Tendon: A flexible but inelastic cord of strong fibrous collagen tissue attaching a muscle to a bone.
- Quadriceps femoris muscle: The large muscle at the front of the thigh, which is divided into four distinct portions and acts to extend the leg.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Kneecap
- Wikipedia's article - Kneecap
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