Locked knee
Locked Knee refers to a condition where the knee joint becomes immobilized in a fixed position, making it difficult or impossible to bend or straighten the knee. This condition can result from various causes, including mechanical obstructions within the joint, such as a torn meniscus, loose bodies, or severe arthritis, as well as from conditions that affect the muscles and ligaments surrounding the knee, leading to a functional lock.
Causes[edit | edit source]
Locked knee can be categorized into two main types: mechanical and pseudo-locking.
- Mechanical locking occurs when there is a physical obstruction within the knee joint. Common causes include:
- Meniscus Tear: A tear in the cartilage of the knee, which can cause a piece of the meniscus to block the joint.
- Loose Bodies: Small pieces of bone or cartilage that become loose and move around within the joint.
- Severe Osteoarthritis: Degeneration of the joint can lead to the formation of bone spurs and rough surfaces that interfere with movement.
- Pseudo-locking or functional locking occurs due to pain or muscle spasm without an actual mechanical block. Causes might include:
- Ligament Injury: Injuries to the knee ligaments can cause pain and swelling, leading to a reflex inhibition or spasm of the muscles around the knee, which makes it difficult to move the joint.
- Patellar Dislocation: Dislocation of the kneecap can lead to acute pain and a sensation of locking, although the joint itself is not mechanically blocked.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
Symptoms of a locked knee include:
- Inability to fully straighten or bend the knee
- Pain in the knee, especially when attempting to move it
- Swelling of the knee joint
- A feeling of the knee being stuck in one position
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis of a locked knee involves a thorough medical history and physical examination by a healthcare professional. Imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI, and CT scan may be used to identify the cause of the lock.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for a locked knee depends on the underlying cause. Options may include:
- Conservative treatments: Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE), Physical Therapy, and medications to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Surgical intervention: In cases where mechanical locking is caused by loose bodies or a meniscus tear, surgery may be necessary to remove the obstruction or repair the damaged structures.
Prevention[edit | edit source]
Preventive measures for a locked knee focus on maintaining knee health through regular exercise, weight management, and avoiding activities that put excessive stress on the knees.
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD