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Weak in the Knees

A Review of Synovial Joints

By Kristine A. Garner, Amber L. Hall

Weak in the Knees


 

Abstract

This directed case study follows “John McKnight,” a high school athlete who has just returned from a previous injury to actively playing sports again. In his weakened condition, John sustains a new injury that affects his mobility. Upon examination, he is diagnosed with a torn meniscus in his knee and undergoes surgery to repair it. During his rehabilitation, he befriends an older patient with arthritis of the knee, and learns how arthritis can affect joints and mobility. This case study allows students to review the anatomical structures associated with a synovial joint using the knee as an example. Ancillary information, such as basic imaging techniques that are used to view bones and associated structures, are also discussed. An anatomical diagram for students to label is included to enhance learning the basic structures of the knee. Additional information and questions include how a torn meniscus, inflammation, and arthritis can affect movements at the knee. The case is well suited for a high school anatomy and physiology class or for an undergraduate human anatomy course.

   

Date Posted

06/23/2020

Overview

Objectives

  • Describe inflammation as a general immune response.
  • Differentiate between an x-ray and an MRI.
  • Describe major structures of the knee including major ligaments and the menisci, and explain how the knee is stabilized by ligaments and muscles.
  • Describe how the knee flexes and extends and discuss how joint damage and disuse of associated muscles can limit movement at the knee.
  • Explain how exercise can be beneficial for muscle atrophy, arthritis, and other types of joint pathologies.

Keywords

Knee; joint; synovial; meniscus; ligament; arthritis; inflammation; stability; imaging techniques

  

Subject Headings

Anatomy
Medicine (General)

EDUCATIONAL LEVEL

Undergraduate lower division, Undergraduate upper division

  

FORMAT

PDF

   

TOPICAL AREAS

N/A

   

LANGUAGE

English

   

TYPE/METHODS

Directed, Discussion

 

 

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