knee /nē/ [AS, cneow] , a joint complex that connects the thigh with the leg. It consists of three condyloid joints, 12 ligaments, 13 bursae, and the patella. The motion of this joint is not a simple gliding motion because the articular surfaces of the bones involved are not mutually adapted to each other. Various orthopedic conditions commonly affect the knee. The knee is relatively unprotected by surrounding muscles and is often injured by blows, sudden stops, and turns, especially those associated with sports. Ligament tears of the knee joint are extremely common in athletes and produce a variety of signs and symptoms, such as effusion, varying degrees of edema, differences in the shape of the knee joint, tenderness on palpation, crepitation, instability of the knee joint, and possible ecchymosis. Torn menisci are very common sports injuries and can cause severe pain, limping, edema, and greatly reduced motion.
