Cruciate Ligaments is divided in to two parts, namely Anterior Cruciate Ligament and Posterior Cruciate Ligament.
Anterior Cruciate Ligament
It is attached to the tibia immediately anterolateral to the anterior tibial spine.
Passes beneath the transverse ligament, blending somewhat with the anterior horn of the lateral meniscus, and runs posteriorly, laterally and proximally to attach to the posterior part of the medial surface of the lateral femoral condyle, Prevents the femur from sliding posteriorly on the tibia, prevents hyperextension of the knee and limits medial rotation of the femur when the foot is on the ground i.e when the leg is fixed
The posterolateral bulk of the ligament is taut in extension, with the anteromedial band lax (and vice versa in flexion).
Posterior Cruciate Ligament
It is attached to the depression in the posterior intercondylar area of the tibia.
Runs anteriorly, medially and proximally, passing on the medial side of the ACL to attach to the anterior part of the lateral surface of the medial femoral condyle, The PCL is shorter and less oblique in its course, as well as being almost twice as strong in tension, than the ACL
Closely aligned to the centre of rotation of the knee joint and therefore may be its principal stabilizer.
It prevents the femur from sliding anteriorly on the tibia, particularly when the knee is flexed.
