toggle mobile menu Menu
toggle search menu

Site Navigation

Supplemental

Menu

Knee

Knee anatomy

The knee joint is where the thighbone (femur) and the shinbone (tibia) come together. A smaller bone called the fibula, on the outside of the lower leg, is also related to the knee joint. The kneecap (patella) is in front of the end of the thigh bone.

The bones are connected by several strong ligaments and cushioned by two pieces of cartilage called menisci (plural of meniscus).

Current as of: July 17, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Healthwise is a URAC accredited health web site content provider. Privacy Policy. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

© 1995- Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.