A locked knee
A plica is a fold in the membrane and can be found in different sizes in almost 50% of all knee joints. Quite often the plica does not show any symptoms. The problems are usually caused by Plica mediopatellaris. If the plica is very big it can be jammed in the knee between the thigh bone and the kneecap causing chronic and painful inflammation of the plica or even damage to the cartilage.
Symptoms of a Plica syndrome in the knee
A typical symptom is a snapping or popping sensation at the kneecap, together with a burning pain after exercising the knee. Intensive exercising could also lead to permanent swelling and limited range of motion. Quite often the patients sense the “snapping” in the knee cap area when bending or stretching the leg.
Diagnostic of a plica syndrome in the knee
During the check-up, we often notice a painful restriction of the knee mobility and a shooting pain on the inside of the knee/in the kneecap area during certain movements. The ultrasound often shows an increased amount of fluid in the knee. The plica itself can usually be seen in an MRI.
Conservative therapy
First of all we can try to treat the syndrome without surgery. A training to stabilize the knee together with stretching exercises can alleviate the pain. We also offer the following therapies which have an anti-inflammatory and stabilising effect;
- Injections
- Neuralgic therapy
- Kinesiology taping
- ACP / autohemotherapy
- Functional training
- Chirotherapy
- Cryotherapy
Surgery
During surgery, the plica will be gently removed using arthroscopy (key hole surgery). This means that 2 small incisions will be made to insert the tiny camera and instruments into the knee.
Post-operative treatment of a plica syndrome
Depending on the type of surgery, you can put weight on your leg straight away. It is important to start your physiotherapy sessions and lymphatic drainage as soon as possible.
The treatment will happen in our practice or you will see the orthopedic surgeon who referred you to us. The treatment involves regular checks on the wound. The threads can be removed within 12–14 days.
We also offer supporting measures such as cryotherapy, kinesiology taping, acupuncture or osteopathy. Dr. Eva Wörenkämper and her team, who are specialists in sports medicine and science, will be very happy to support and guide you regarding the start of your sport activities.
What are the long-term consequences of a plica syndrome in the knee?
Depending on the size of the plica and the contact to the surface of the joint, the cartilage can get damaged.
