Final answer:
The seven major ligaments that stabilize the knee are the tibial collateral ligament, fibular collateral ligament, anterior cruciate ligament, posterior cruciate ligament, and the medial and lateral menisci that provide padding and improve the fit between the bones.
Step-by-step explanation:
The knee joint is stabilized by seven major ligaments that provide support and stability, particularly when the knee is extended. On the outside of the knee joint, two extrinsic ligaments are found: the tibial collateral ligament (medial collateral ligament), which runs from the medial epicondyle of the femur to the medial tibia, and the fibular collateral ligament (lateral collateral ligament), which spans from the lateral epicondyle of the femur to the head of the fibula. Inside the knee, two intracapsular ligaments are located: the anterior cruciate ligament, which resists hyperextension of the knee, and the posterior cruciate ligament, which prevents the femur from sliding anteriorly off the top of the tibia when the knee is flexed and weight-bearing. Additionally, the knee is cushioned and supported by the medial and lateral menisci, which are articular discs located between the femoral and tibial condyles.