ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M  N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  X  Y  Z                    HOME ABOUT CATEGORIES SITE MAP COPYRIGHT ADVERTISE CONTACT entire Web this site patella Commonly known as the kneecap, the triangular sesamoid bone at the front of the knee. The patella is held in position by the lower end of the quadriceps muscle (the main muscle at the front of the thigh), and by the patellar tendon, which attaches it to the tibia (shin bone). Disorders of the patella Dislocation of the patella is usually due to a congenital (inherited) abnormality, such as an underdevelopment of the lower end of the femur (thigh bone) or excessive looseness of ligaments that support the knee. Fracture is usually caused by a direct blow. Inflammation and roughening of the undersurface of the patella, resulting in knee pain that worsens when bending the knee or climbing stairs, is caused by chondromalacia patellae in adolescence and by arthritis in adults. Related category    • ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) BACK TO TOP