244 Dance Anatomy and Kinesiology
rotation of the tibia (pes anserine bursa). Anteriorly,
bursae lie between the anterior surface of the patella
and the overlying skin (prepatellar bursa), as well as
underneath (deep infrapatellar bursa) and in front of
(superficial infrapatellar bursa) the patellar tendon.
With the use of floor work in dance, some of these
bursae can readily become inflamed (bursitis).Iliotibial Band
Recall that the iliotibial band is a fascial band that
begins superiorly at the ilium and runs down the
side of the thigh to attach to the lateral condyle of
the femur, the posterior femur, the patella, and the
lateral condyle of the tibia. The tensor fasciae latae,
described in the previous chapter on the hip, inserts
into this band (figure 4.6, p. 166). When the tensor
fasciae latae contracts, it tightens the iliotibial band,
which makes this band’s function similar to that of a
dynamic ligament of the knee. Due to the anterior
attachments of some of its fibers, some hold that the
iliotibial band can act as a knee extensor when the
knee is slightly flexed (0° to 30° knee flexion), but
then it acts as a flexor of the knee when the knee
is flexed greater than 40° (Dye and Vaupel, 2000).
Although controversial, the tensor fasciae latae
via the iliotibal band may also assist with external
rotation of the tibia or knee (Smith, Weiss, and
Lehmkuhl, 1996). The iliotibial band is unique to
humans and appears to be a unique adaptation to
the demands of erect posture, providing key lateral
support to the knee as well as the hip.Muscles
In addition to the vital ligaments of the knee, various
additional muscles that cross the knee provide addi-
tional stability to this joint. Some of these muscles,
particularly the quadriceps femoris, have also been
shown to serve as important shock absorbers that
play a significant role in protecting the knee from
early degenerative changes.Description and Functions of Individual Knee Muscles.
Twelve muscles cross the knee joint and aid the liga-
ments with providing stability, as well as give rise to
the movements of the knee. The most important
muscular support is provided by the quadriceps com-
plex anteriorly and the hamstrings posteriorly. Slight
lateral support is also offered by the lateral hamstring
muscle, the biceps femoris. Slight medial support is
provided by one of the medial hamstring members,
the semitendinosus, as well as by other members of
the pes anserinus (sartorius and gracilis). A more
detailed description of these muscles can be found in
Individual Muscles of the Knee on pages 245-250 and- Note that many of these muscles cross multiple
joints and also can produce movement at the hip or
ankle as well as the knee.
FIGURE 5.5 Selected bursae of the knee (right knee,
anteromedial view).