Which ligament in the knee joint prevents hyperextension?

• A. Medial collateral ligament
• B. Anterior cruciate ligament
• C. Lateral collateral ligament
• D. Posterior cruciate ligament

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the function of ligaments in the knee joint. Ligaments are connective tissues that stabilize the joint by limiting excessive movement and preventing injury.
2. Step 2: Review the specific roles of the listed ligaments. The medial collateral ligament (MCL) stabilizes the inner side of the knee, while the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) stabilizes the outer side. The posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) prevents the tibia from moving backward relative to the femur.
3. Step 3: Focus on the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL). The ACL is responsible for preventing hyperextension of the knee and excessive forward movement of the tibia relative to the femur.
4. Step 4: Recall that hyperextension refers to the excessive straightening of the knee joint beyond its normal range of motion, which the ACL is specifically designed to prevent.
5. Step 5: Conclude that the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is the correct answer because it plays a critical role in preventing hyperextension of the knee joint.