Tibiofemoral Joint

articulatio tibiofemorale

The tibiofemoral joint is the primary articulation of the knee, consisting of two separate compartments between the femoral condyles and tibial plateaux, separated by the medial and lateral menisci. The screw-home mechanism of terminal extension, where the tibia externally rotates to lock the knee in full extension, is an important biomechanical feature that improves stability in upright stance. This is the most frequently injured joint in sport and the most common site for total joint replacement.

Region: Knee

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

The tibiofemoral joint is the site of osteoarthritis in the majority of knee replacement patients, with the medial compartment most commonly affected because of the greater load distribution there during walking. Varus knee alignment accelerates medial compartment arthritis while valgus alignment accelerates lateral compartment arthritis. Meniscal tears, cruciate ligament injuries, and articular cartilage lesions all affect the tibiofemoral joint and can lead to early-onset osteoarthritis if not managed appropriately.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Tibiofemoral Osteoarthritis

Degenerative loss of articular cartilage in one or both compartments producing knee pain, stiffness, and deformity managed with physiotherapy, offloading orthotics, and eventually joint replacement.