Final answer:
The capsular pattern of the tibiofemoral knee joint is the characteristic restriction in range of motion due to inflamed or arthritic joint conditions. The knee joint involves structures that support stability and movement, including various ligaments and the menisci. The movement of the knee includes both rolling and gliding of the femoral condyles on the tibial plateau.
Step-by-step explanation:
The capsular pattern of the tibiofemoral (knee) joint refers to the characteristic pattern of restriction that occurs when the joint capsule is inflamed or arthritic. The articulations in the knee include the femoropatellar joint and the medial and lateral tibiofemoral joints. These joints allow the knee to perform its main actions: extension and flexion. The collateral ligaments, specifically the tibial collateral ligament and the fibular collateral ligament, provide lateral stability to the knee to resist hyperextension and rotation when the knee is extended. The anterior cruciate ligament and the posterior cruciate ligament serve to resist hyperextension and prevent anterior sliding of the femur on the tibia, providing stability during weight-bearing flexion. The medial and lateral menisci play a key role in distributing load and absorbing shock.
During knee range of motion, the femoral condyles perform a rolling and gliding movement over the tibial plateau. When the knee reaches full extension, the smaller lateral femoral condyle finishes rolling before the medial condyle, resulting in a slight medial rotation to 'lock' the knee in place. Flexion begins with a slight lateral rotation that 'unlocks' the knee. This precise coordination of movements, supported by the knee's ligaments and menisci, demonstrates the complexity and vulnerability of the knee joint to injury.