Question

multiple choice question

which knee ligament prevents posterior movement of the tibia?

• lateral collateral ligament
• anterior cruciate ligament
• medial collateral ligament
• posterior cruciate ligament

Explanation:

Identify the target anatomical structure

Using the Knee Joint Anatomy knowledge point
The question asks which knee ligament prevents posterior movement (displacement) of the tibia relative to the femur.

Analyze the function of each ligament option

• Lateral collateral ligament (LCL): Resists varus forces (forces pushing the knee outward from the medial side).
• Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL): Prevents anterior translation of the tibia relative to the femur.
• Medial collateral ligament (MCL): Resists valgus forces (forces pushing the knee inward from the lateral side).
• Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL): Prevents posterior translation of the tibia relative to the femur.

Determine the correct choice

The ligament that specifically prevents posterior movement of the tibia is the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL).

Answer:

• Lateral collateral ligament
• Anterior cruciate ligament
• Medial collateral ligament
• Posterior cruciate ligament (Correct answer)