Joints and ligaments of the lower limb
Scenario:
A football player twists their knee while pivoting. They feel a pop and have instability when
walking. An MRI shows an ACL (Anterior cruciate ligament) tear
Research Questions:
1. Why is the hip joint more stable than the shoulder?
The hip joint is more stable than the shoulder primarily due to structural differences and
functional demands
● Deeper socket - The hip joint is a ball and socket joint like the shoulder but the
acetabulum (Hip socket) is much deeper than the glenoid fossa (shoulder socket.)
This depth provides a more secure fit for the femoral head compared to the shallow glenoid
cavity which allows more mobility but less stability
, ● Stronger ligaments - The hip joint is reinforced by strong ligaments including the
iliofemoral, pubofemoral and ischiofemoral ligaments. These ligaments provide
significant passive stability and in contrast the shoulder relies on muscles and tendons
Scenario:
A football player twists their knee while pivoting. They feel a pop and have instability when
walking. An MRI shows an ACL (Anterior cruciate ligament) tear
Research Questions:
1. Why is the hip joint more stable than the shoulder?
The hip joint is more stable than the shoulder primarily due to structural differences and
functional demands
● Deeper socket - The hip joint is a ball and socket joint like the shoulder but the
acetabulum (Hip socket) is much deeper than the glenoid fossa (shoulder socket.)
This depth provides a more secure fit for the femoral head compared to the shallow glenoid
cavity which allows more mobility but less stability
, ● Stronger ligaments - The hip joint is reinforced by strong ligaments including the
iliofemoral, pubofemoral and ischiofemoral ligaments. These ligaments provide
significant passive stability and in contrast the shoulder relies on muscles and tendons
