What is it?
Osteochondritis dissecans of the knee is a localized injury affecting the surface of the joint in which fragments of cartilage and underlying bone come loose and float around in the knee joint. These may also be referred to as a joint mouse or loose bodies.
How does it occur?
This usually occurs by direct trauma, contact or collision sports, falling on hard surface, repetitive force, or a family history. This disorder usually affects the knee cap or the top part of the knee.
What are the symptoms?
You may experience symptoms including mechanical locking, persistent swelling, aching, or giving away. You may feel these loose bodies along the surface of your knee joint line.
How is it diagnosed?
Your doctor will examine your knee and may find that it locks or clicks. Fragments may be felt along the joint line. Following physical examination, your doctor may order an x-ray or MRI to locate bony fragments.
How is it treated?
Initially medications, ice and elevation are advised to relieve pain and reduce swelling. If symptoms are persistent surgery may be recommended to remove loose bodies and correct large defects.
When can I return to my Sport or Activity?
The goal of rehabilitation is to return you to your sport or activity as soon as is safely possible. If your return is too soon you may worsen your injury, which could lead to permanent damage. Everyone recovers from injury at a different rate. Return to your sport or activity will be determined by how soon your knee recovers, not by how many days or weeks it has been since your injury occurred. In general, the longer you have symptoms before you start treatment, the longer it will take to get better. You may safely return to your sport or activity when a professional therapist has assessed that you have functionally:
- Straightened and bend the injured knee without pain.
- Regained normal strength compared to the uninjured knee and leg
- Not experienced persistent effusion
- Jogged straight ahead without limping
- Sprinted straight ahead without limping
- Performed 45 degree cuts
- Performed 90 degree cuts
- Performed 20 yard figure of eight runs
- Performed 10 yard figure of eight runs
- Jumped on both legs without pain and jump If you feel that your knee is giving way or if you develop persistent pain or swelling in your knee, you should see your doctor.
If your condition required surgery, ask your doctor when it is safe to return to sports or activity.
How can I prevent osteochondritis dissecans of the knee?
Avoidance of repetitive or traumatic force is beneficial otherwise this disorder is not preventable.
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