Final answer:
The tibia is the main weight-bearing bone of the leg, located medially and is larger than the fibula, which is lateral and non-weight-bearing. The knee joint, which includes the tibia, fibula, and kneecap, relies on ligaments for stability, preventing the tibia from sliding too far in either direction relative to the femur.
Step-by-step explanation:
Routine Views of the Tibia/Fibula and Knee
The tibia, also known as the shin bone, is the larger and medial bone of the leg which significantly contributes to weight bearing. In contrast, the fibula is the thinner bone located on the lateral side of the leg and does not bear weight. When looking at routine views of the leg and knee, it is essential to know that the tibia and fibula are connected by an interosseous membrane. The kneecap, or patella, interfaces with the femur of the upper leg and the tibia of the lower leg, playing a vital role in the knee joint.
The medial side of the tibia can be palpated down the leg due to its proximity to the skin, while the fibula is largely surrounded by muscles, with only its proximal and distal ends being palpable. The anatomy of the knee joint is a complex interplay of bones, joints, muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. Two key ligaments that maintain the stability of the knee are critical: one prevents the tibia from sliding too far forward in relation to the femur, and another prevents it from sliding too far backward.