1. Health

What Is the Patellofemoral Joint?

From , former About.com Guide

Updated April 07, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

What Is the Patellofemoral Joint? Photo © A.D.A.M.
Definition: Anatomically, there are three compartments in the knee. Where the femur (thigh bone) meets the tibia (large shin bone), there is an inner (medial) and outer (lateral) compartment. The third compartment, formed by the patella (kneecap) and femur, is known as the patellofemoral joint.

Pronunciation: puh-tella-fem-or-uhl
Related Video
See a Facet Joint Block
What Causes Sacroiliac Joint Syndrome?

©2013 About.com. All rights reserved.

We comply with the HONcode standard
for trustworthy health
information: verify here.