Abstract des Autors

The lateral retinaculum is a thick fibrous structure that lies along the lateral border of the patella. The lateral patellofemoral ligament and iliotibial band send fibers to this structure. Tightness in the lateral retinaculum can cause a lateral tilt in the patella. If this tilt is excessive, an orthopaedist may have to perform a lateral release. Stretching of the lateral retinaculum is often beneficial for athletes who are experiencing patello-femoral pain. The iliotibial band spans two joints - the hip and knee - and influences three articulations. It originates as a wide band of fascia covering the upper lateral pelvis, and narrows to a band along the lateral aspect of the thigh. It remains attached posteriorly to the lateral intermuscular septum, and distally to the patella, lateral retinaculum, and tibia via its attachment to Gerdy's tubercle. Tightness in the iliotibial band can result in excessive lateral patellar pressure. Because of its attachments to the lateral retinaculum, it can contribute to patellar position, patellar tracking, and patellar pain. Assessment of iliotibial band tightness is important in screening those athletes who may be more susceptible to developing patellofemoral pain. The hamstrings comprise a group of three muscles that function together to flex the knee. They pull the upper tibia posteriorly, imparting a flexion moment on the patella. This flexion moment pulls the inferior pole of the patella poteriorly into the infrapatellar fat pad that lies behind and on either side of the patellar tendon. This fat pad is highly innervated and thus very sensitive to pain. Hamstring tightness is often associated with patellofemoral pain because of the muscles' effect on the patella. Verf.-Referat