At 30 to 90 degrees of knee flexion, which structure plays a crucial role in patellar stability?

Prepare for the AMSSM Sports Medicine Exam! Use interactive quizzes and comprehensive study materials to enhance your knowledge and boost your confidence. Perfect your exam technique today!

At 30 to 90 degrees of knee flexion, the trochlear groove is critical for maintaining patellar stability. The trochlear groove, located on the femur, forms the bony structure within which the patella (kneecap) articulates. As the knee flexes, the geometry and depth of the trochlear groove help guide the patella and keep it in alignment, preventing dislocation and ensuring smooth movement.

The patella's stability is largely dependent on how well it fits within this groove during knee flexion. When the knee is bent within this range, the patella is naturally pulled into the groove, helping to centrically position it. A well-defined and properly shaped trochlear groove can help prevent lateral displacement and other instability issues, which are common in knee injuries or conditions like patellar tendinopathy.

While the other structures listed play roles in knee stability overall or in different ranges of movement, they are not as specifically critical for patellar stability within this specific angle of knee flexion as the trochlear groove. The medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) supports lateral stability but is not as prominent in the same degree range. The medial collateral ligament primarily provides stability against Valgus forces but is not

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy