[Functional anatomy and kinematics of the femorotibial joint. Results of research 1836-1950].

Ever since the investigations of the Weber brothers in 1836, on the mechanics of the walking implements of humans, several others, like von Meyer (1853), Langer (1858), Robert (1855), Albert (1878), Bougnion (1892), Fischer (1907), Zuppinger (1904), A.E. Fick (1877), R. Fick (1911), Strasser (1917), Tretter (1944), and Knese (1959), have presented a vast amount of literature on the kinematics and functional anatomy of the knee joint which continue to be a source of inspiration even for contemporary international research work. This literature has been reviewed and is now presented in short form, not only because of its historical value, but to stimulate further research activity in this field. Furthermore, possible application of the kinematics of the physiological knee joint in orthotics and prosthetics is indicated.