WEEKLY NEWSLETTER

Health's Top Stories
Get a weekly look at the most popular stories on Health.com.
See All Newsletters

Knee ligaments

  • Print
content provided by Healthwise

Ligaments are tough, ropelike fibers that connect one bone to another. The four ligaments of the knee connect the upper leg bone (femur) to the lower leg bone (tibia) and stabilize knee movement.

  • The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the posterior cruciate ligament cross inside the center of the knee joint and stabilize front-to-back knee movements.
  • The medial collateral ligament and the lateral collateral ligament connect the leg bones at the sides of the knee and stabilize side-to-side movements.

Credits

AuthorShannon Erstad, MBA/MPH
EditorKathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate EditorMichele Cronen
Associate EditorPat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical ReviewerWilliam M. Green, MD

- Emergency Medicine
Primary Medical ReviewerAdam Husney, MD

- Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerFreddie H. Fu, MD

- Orthopedic Surgery
Specialist Medical ReviewerPatrick J. McMahon, MD

- Orthopedics
Last UpdatedMay 16, 2008
  • Print
Last Updated: May 16, 2008
Author:
Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH
Medical Review:
William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine

Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine

Freddie H. Fu, MD - Orthopedic Surgery

Patrick J. McMahon, MD - Orthopedics


© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.



This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.