M67.52

Clinical Causes: Repetitive activities that involve frequent bending or twisting of the knee, such as running, cycling, or certain sports. Acute injury or trauma to the knee, leading to irritation of the plica. Previous knee injuries or surgeries that disrupt normal joint structures. Poor biomechanics, such as abnormal gait or misalignment. Degeneration or wear of the synovial tissue over time, especially in older adults.

Key Symptoms: Localized pain in the front of the knee, often worsened by activity. A sensation of clicking, snapping, or catching within the knee joint during movement. Swelling or tenderness around the knee, particularly near the joint line. Discomfort during prolonged sitting or bending of the knee. Reduced range of motion due to pain or swelling.

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis involves a thorough medical history and physical examination by a healthcare provider. They may perform specific tests to reproduce symptoms, such as the props test or patellar compression test. Imaging studies like MRI can help visualize the plica and rule out other causes of knee pain, such as ligament injuries or cartilage damage. Arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure, is sometimes used for definitive diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment Protocols: Management of plica syndrome typically includes non-surgical approaches, such as: - Rest and activity modification to reduce knee irritation. - Application of ice to decrease swelling and pain. - Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief. - Physical therapy programs aimed at strengthening surrounding muscles and improving joint stability. If symptoms persist despite conservative treatment, surgical intervention may be considered. Arthroscopic surgery can remove or smooth the affected plica to relieve symptoms and restore knee function. Recovery from surgery usually involves a period of physical therapy focused on restoring strength, flexibility, and mobility.