MENISCUS LATERALIS Meaning and
Definition
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The term "meniscus lateralis" refers to a specific anatomical structure found in the knee joint. It is one of the two C-shaped pieces of cartilage, the other being the medial meniscus, that act as shock absorbers and stabilize the knee by distributing weight and reducing friction between the femur (thigh bone) and tibia (shinbone).
The meniscus lateralis, also known as the lateral meniscus, is located on the outer side of the knee joint, whereas the medial meniscus is on the inner side. It is attached to the top surface of the tibia and moves with it during any knee bending or twisting movements. This structure is composed of specialized fibrocartilage, which provides flexibility and durability.
The meniscus lateralis serves several important functions. Firstly, it helps to distribute the load transmitted across the knee joint, protecting the articular cartilage from excessive wear and tear. It also contributes to the stability and integrity of the joint by deepening the surface of the tibia, increasing its congruence with the rounded femoral condyles. Additionally, the meniscus lateralis aids in lubricating the knee joint by distributing synovial fluid, a viscous fluid that nourishes the cartilage and reduces friction during movement.
Injuries to the meniscus lateralis can occur due to sudden twisting or rotational forces applied to the knee, often during sports activities. Symptoms of a meniscal tear include pain, swelling, limited range of motion, and a clicking or locking sensation in the knee. Treatment options depend on the severity of the tear and may range from conservative approaches such as rest, ice, compression, and physical therapy to surgical interventions, such as arthroscopic meniscus repair or
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Lateral meniscus, external semilunar fibrocartilage, attached to the outer border of the upper articular surface of the tibia.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MENISCUS LATERALIS
- me niscus lateralis
- men iscus lateralis
- meni scus lateralis
- menis cus lateralis
- menisc us lateralis
- meniscu s lateralis
- meniscus l ateralis
- meniscus la teralis
- meniscus lat eralis
- meniscus late ralis
- meniscus later alis
- meniscus latera lis
- meniscus lateral is
- meniscus laterali s
Etymology of MENISCUS LATERALIS
The term "meniscus lateralis" comes from Latin and Greek.
The word "meniscus" originates from the Greek word "meniskos", which means "crescent" or "little moon". In ancient Greek medicine, a "meniscus" referred to a crescent-shaped structure, similar to the shape of a small moon. It was used to describe various crescent-like structures found in different parts of the body.
The term "lateralis" is derived from the Latin word "lateralis", which means "of or relating to the side". In anatomy, "lateralis" is used to describe a structure or body part positioned towards the side of the body.
Therefore, "meniscus lateralis" combines the Greek word "meniscus", referring to the crescent shape, with the Latin word "lateralis", indicating its location towards the side.
