Question

multiple choice question

what are the structures of the knee joint that absorb shock and prevent the femur from moving side to side on the tibia?

tendons
fat pads
bursae
menisci

Explanation:

Identify the target structures and functions

Using the Knee Joint Anatomy knowledge point, we analyze the functional requirements stated in the question:

1. Absorb shock within the knee joint.
2. Prevent the femur from moving side to side on the tibia (lateral stability/deepening the articular surfaces).

Evaluate the given anatomical options

• Tendons: Connect muscle to bone to facilitate movement and provide dynamic stability, but are not the primary intra-articular shock absorbers.
• Fat pads: Provide cushioning and reduce friction between joint structures, but do not stabilize the femur from sliding side-to-side on the tibia.
• Bursae: Fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction between moving tissues, not designed for structural stabilization or direct load-bearing shock absorption between the femur and tibia.
• Menisci: C-shaped fibrocartilage pads located between the femoral condyles and tibial plateau. They deepen the articular surface to prevent lateral sliding (side-to-side movement) and distribute weight to absorb shock.

Select the correct anatomical structure

The menisci (lateral and medial) perfectly match both functional criteria of shock absorption and preventing side-to-side displacement of the femur on the tibia.

Answer:

• Tendons
• Fat pads
• Bursae
• Menisci (Correct answer)