The cruciate ligament, specifically the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), is a crucial ligament in the center of the knee joint.
Function of the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)
The ACL plays a vital role in knee stability. Its primary function, as described in the reference, is to prevent the shin bone (tibia) from moving forward on the thigh bone (femur). In other words, it helps keep your lower leg from sliding too far forward relative to your upper leg.
Role of the ACL in Knee Stability
Here's a breakdown of how the ACL contributes to knee stability:
- Preventing Anterior Translation: As mentioned, it stops the tibia from moving too far forward.
- Rotational Stability: The ACL also provides some rotational stability to the knee, helping to control twisting movements.
Injuries and Knee Arthroscopy
The reference also mentions knee arthroscopy. While it doesn't directly define the ACL, it provides context:
- Knee Arthroscopy: This is a surgical procedure used to examine the inside of the knee using a small camera. It can be used to diagnose and repair ACL tears.
