The knee joint connects three bones: femur, tibia, and patella. It is a complex hinge joint with two articulations: tibiofemoral and patellofemoral. The largest and most stressed joint in the body
Valgus causes knees to touch and feet apart, shifting load-bearing axis outward. Varus causes knees to bow outward, shifting load-bearing axis inward. Both conditions increase knee stress and can lead to arthritis
BME occurs when normal bone marrow is replaced with fluid and blood. Most common in legs, especially knee joint. Can result from injuries, physical changes, or infections. May develop from avascular necrosis or cancer
The patella is a triangular bone that articulates with the femur. It is the largest sesamoid bone in the human body. The cartilage covering the patella reaches maximum thickness of 6 mm by age 30. The ossification center develops between ages 3-6
Chondromalacia is cartilage softening on underside of patella. Also known as "runner's knee" causing knee pain. Can result from overuse, injury, misalignment, or arthritis
Reviewed 60 interventions from inception to July 2018. Used GRADE evidence profiles and expert consensus. Conducted four anonymous online voting sessions