The term “condyle” refers to a round projection on a bone that articulates with another bone. Condyles are found in several parts of the human body, including the skull, the tibia (shin bone), and the femur (thigh bone).
Structure
Condyles are typically found at the end of long bones, such as the femur or tibia, and are often paired on opposite sides of the bone. Each condyle is rounded and has a smooth surface that allows for smooth movement during articulation with another bone.
They are made up of a layer of hyaline cartilage that covers the surface of the bone and helps to reduce friction during movement. The hyaline cartilage is supported by a layer of bone tissue called spongy bone.
Location
We can find Condyles in several locations throughout the human body, including:
- Skull: The skull has several pairs of condyles, including the mandibular condyles, which are located on the lower jaw (mandible) and articulate with the temporal bones of the skull.
- Tibia: The tibia, or shin bone, has two condyles at its distal end (lower end) that articulate with the talus bone of the foot. These condyles are called the medial and lateral tibial condyles.
- Femur: The femur, or thigh bone, has two condyles at its distal end that articulate with the tibia. These condyles are called the medial and lateral femoral condyles.
Function
Condyles play a crucial role in the movement and stability of the human body. In the skull, the mandibular condyles allow for movement of the lower jaw during chewing and speaking.
In the tibia and femur, the condyles allow for movement at the knee joint. The medial and lateral tibial condyles articulate with the medial and lateral femoral condyles, respectively, to allow for flexion and extension of the knee joint. This allows us to walk, run, and perform other leg movements.
Clinical Significance
Condyles can be affected by various medical conditions, including fractures and osteoarthritis.
Fractures
Condyles can be fractured due to trauma, such as a fall or a car accident. The most common condyle fractures occur in the mandibular condyles of the skull and the tibial condyles of the tibia. These fractures can cause pain and difficulty moving the affected joint. Treatment for condyle fractures may include rest, ice, physical therapy, and surgery.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that can affect the condyles. This condition occurs when the cartilage that covers the surface of the condyles wears down, causing the bones to rub together and causing pain and stiffness. Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in the body, including the knee joint (tibial and femoral condyles). Treatment for osteoarthritis may include pain medications, physical therapy, and surgery.
