The relationship between the joints, ligaments, tendons, and fascia of the foot, ankle, and lower extremity allows weight-bearing athletes to perform extraordinary feats of power, speed, and endurance. In this chapter, motion of various foot and ankle segments (kinematics) and…
The most common sources of pain and dysfunction in the lower limb of an athlete are musculoskeletal in origin; however, vascular pathology may also present with similar symptoms. Sports that involve frequent repetitive joint motion or high-impact collisions have the…
Full range of motion (ROM) in the knee joint is critical for optimal function. A slight loss of knee motion can limit function and cause pain, and a more severe loss will lead to significant impairment and disability. For optimum…
The patellar and quadriceps tendons along with the patella make up the extensor mechanism of the knee. Disease of the extensor mechanism tendons ranges from tendinopathy to complete rupture. Tendinopathies commonly affect healthy athletes secondary to chronic overuse, but they…
Patellofemoral pain is common, with an incidence as high as 50% in some populations. Often referred to as anterior knee pain, patellofemoral pain can be challenging for both patients and clinicians, as it can often be difficult to determine the…
Patellar instability is a broad topic that encompasses a continuum of patellar abnormalities. To address this complex topic, it is important to first define several terms. During the normal knee flexion cycle, the patella tracks in the center of the…
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is an extremely common cause of disability. The etiology is multifactorial, but joint injury is a prevalent cause of OA in the knee. Studies have shown that meniscal injury requiring a meniscectomy alters knee biomechanics and leads…
Knee ligaments are responsible for providing the static stability of the knee, control of kinematics, and prevention of abnormal rotation and/or displacement that may damage the articular surfaces or the menisci. Knee dislocations are rare and are estimated to account…
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 have severe consequences for overall knee stability and function. Missed…
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 that play a vital role in the stability of the…