Patellar ligament

Definition

The patellar ligament is a strong, flat band of fibrous tissue that extends from the patella (kneecap) to the tibia (shinbone), playing a crucial role in extending the knee joint. It is an extension of the quadriceps tendon and is integral to knee stability and movement.

Related terms

Quadriceps Tendon:

The tendon that connects the four muscles of the front thigh (quadriceps) to the patella, which then continues as the patellar ligament.

Tibia:

The larger and stronger of the two bones in the lower leg, also known as the shinbone, which serves as one of the key attachment points for the patellar ligament.

Knee Joint:

A complex hinge joint formed between three bones - femur (thigh bone), tibia (shin bone), and patella (knee cap), where movements such as bending, straightening, and rotating are facilitated