Joint locking

Joint Locking
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Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Inability to fully extend or flex a joint
Complications	N/A
Onset	N/A
Duration	N/A
Types	N/A
Causes	Meniscus tear, Loose body (orthopedics), Arthritis
Risks	N/A
Diagnosis	Physical examination, MRI, X-ray
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Physical therapy, Arthroscopy, Medication
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	N/A
Deaths	N/A

Joint locking is a condition where a joint becomes temporarily stuck in a particular position, preventing full range of motion. This phenomenon is most commonly associated with the knee joint, but can occur in other joints such as the elbow, shoulder, or jaw.

Causes

Joint locking can be caused by several underlying conditions:

• Meniscus tear: A tear in the meniscus, a C-shaped cartilage in the knee, can cause fragments to become lodged in the joint, leading to locking.
• Loose body (orthopedics): Small fragments of bone or cartilage can become loose within the joint space, causing mechanical obstruction.
• Arthritis: Inflammatory conditions such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can lead to joint locking due to swelling and deformity.
• Ligament injury: Damage to ligaments, such as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), can destabilize the joint and cause locking.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of joint locking is the inability to fully extend or flex the affected joint. Other symptoms may include:

• Pain in the joint
• Swelling and inflammation
• A sensation of catching or clicking
• Reduced range of motion

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of joint locking involves a combination of:

• Physical examination: A healthcare provider will assess the joint for range of motion, swelling, and pain.
• Imaging studies: MRI and X-ray can help visualize the internal structures of the joint and identify any loose bodies or tears.

Treatment

Treatment for joint locking depends on the underlying cause:

• Physical therapy: Exercises to strengthen the muscles around the joint and improve flexibility.
• Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove loose bodies or repair torn cartilage.
• Medication: Anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce pain and swelling.

Prognosis

The prognosis for joint locking varies depending on the cause and the treatment provided. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes.

Prevention

Preventive measures include maintaining joint health through regular exercise, avoiding joint overuse, and managing underlying conditions such as arthritis.

Also see

• Meniscus tear
• Loose body (orthopedics)
• Arthritis
• Knee pain
• Orthopedic surgery