Question

Football players often sustain lateral blows to the extended knee. Which of the ligaments is (are) damaged as a result?

A) oblique popliteal and extracapsular ligament
B) suprapatellar
C) arcuate popliteal and the posterior cruciate
D) medial collateral

Answer 1

Lateral blows to the extended knee typically result in damage to the tibial collateral ligament, medial meniscus, and anterior cruciate ligament, with the severity of the blow dictating the extent of the injury.

Step-by-step explanation:

When football players sustain lateral blows to the extended knee, the ligaments that are likely to be damaged are: the tibial collateral ligament, the medial meniscus, and the anterior cruciate ligament. A moderate blow may result in the tibial collateral ligament stretching or becoming damaged. With a stronger blow, the injury can extend to the medial meniscus, which is attached to the tibial collateral ligament. The most severe blow, often referred to as the "terrible triad," includes a sequential injury to the tibial collateral ligament, the medial meniscus, and the anterior cruciate ligament. These components work together to stabilize the knee and prevent excessive motion; damage to these structures can severely compromise knee stability.