Musculoskeletal Key

Radiographs Radiographs are often the initial imaging study performed for a patient presenting with knee pain, swelling, or decreased range of motion. Radiographs can also aid in the evaluation of…

The hip joint ( coxa in Latin) is the articulation connecting the pelvis and the femur. It is an encapsulated synovial joint with a ball and socket architecture in which…

As understanding of the posterolateral corner (PLC) has increased, its significance to overall knee function and biomechanics has become clearer. Although it is a relatively uncommon injury, PLC injuries can…

Patellar instability is a broad topic that encompasses a continuum of patellar abnormalities ranging from asymptomatic maltracking to debilitating recurrent dislocations. To address this complex topic, it is important to…

Overview of Pathologies Patellofemoral pain is a common musculoskeletal ailment in active adolescents and adults. The incidence may be as high as 50% in some populations. Patellofemoral pain, which is…

The most common source of pain and dysfunction in the lower limb of the athlete is musculoskeletal in origin; nevertheless, vascular pathology may also present in a similar fashion. Sports…

Medial ligament injuries of the knee are often assumed to be only medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries. However, the medial ligament includes not only the MCL but also posteromedial structures…

History of the Meniscus One of the earliest descriptions of the menisci was recorded by Bland-Sutton in 1897. At that time, the menisci were thought to be vestigial tissue and…

Full range of motion (ROM) in the knee joint is critical for optimal function. A slight loss of knee motion can cause limited function and pain, and a more severe…

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is an extremely common cause of disability. The etiology is multifactorial, but joint injury is an prevalent cause of OA in the knee. Studies have shown that…