Knee ligaments

Skip Navigation

Ligaments are tough, ropy fibers that connect one bone to another. The four ligaments of the knee connect the upper leg bone (femur) to the lower leg bone (tibia) and stabilize knee movement.

  • The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and the posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) cross inside the center of the knee joint and stabilize front-to-back knee movements.
  • The medial collateral ligament (MCL) and the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) connect the leg bones at the sides of the knee and stabilize side-to-side movements.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.