Locked Knee – Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment

Locked Knee – Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment at Emirates Hospitals Group

A locked knee is a condition where the knee becomes temporarily “stuck” in a certain position, preventing normal movement. This can cause pain, discomfort, and difficulty in straightening or bending the knee. A locked knee may occur suddenly or develop over time, and it can significantly affect your mobility and daily activities. At Emirates Hospitals Group, we provide comprehensive care to diagnose the cause of a locked knee and offer effective treatments to restore knee function and improve your quality of life.

Causes of Locked Knee

There are several potential causes for a locked knee, including:

• Meniscus Tears: A tear in the cartilage of the knee (meniscus) can cause the knee to lock if a piece of cartilage gets caught in the joint.
• Ligament Injuries: Injury to the knee ligaments, such as the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament), can cause instability or locking in the joint.
• Osteoarthritis: Wear and tear of the knee joint due to osteoarthritis can result in bone spurs or cartilage damage, leading to joint locking.
• Patellar Dislocation: When the kneecap (patella) moves out of its normal position, it can cause the knee to lock in place.
• Loose Bodies in the Knee: Fragments of bone or cartilage from injury or arthritis can float in the joint and cause it to lock.
• Joint Infections or Inflammation: Infections or inflammation caused by conditions like septic arthritis or gout can lead to swelling and locking of the knee.
• Chondromalacia Patella: Softening or damage to the cartilage under the kneecap can result in painful movement and locking.
• Baker’s Cyst: A cyst that forms at the back of the knee can put pressure on the joint and cause the knee to lock or feel stiff.

Symptoms of Locked Knee

Common symptoms of a locked knee include:

• Inability to fully straighten or bend the knee.
• Pain or discomfort when trying to move the knee.
• A feeling of stiffness or tightness in the knee joint.
• Swelling around the knee.
• A popping, clicking, or catching sensation when trying to move the knee.
• A feeling of the knee being “stuck” in a particular position.

Diagnosis of Locked Knee

To determine the cause of a locked knee, a thorough evaluation is essential. At Emirates Hospitals Group, our specialists use the following diagnostic methods:

• Physical Examination: The doctor will assess the knee for signs of swelling, tenderness, or abnormal movement and check for any mechanical obstructions in the joint.
• Medical History: A review of your medical history, including any previous injuries, surgeries, or underlying conditions, helps identify the cause.
• X-rays: X-rays may be taken to check for bone spurs, fractures, or joint alignment issues.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): An MRI is used to assess soft tissue structures like the meniscus, ligaments, and cartilage, and to identify any tears or damage.
• Arthroscopy: In some cases, a minimally invasive procedure known as arthroscopy may be performed to examine the knee joint directly and identify the exact cause of the locking.

Treatment for Locked Knee in Dubai

Treatment for a locked knee depends on the underlying cause. At Emirates Hospitals Group, our specialists offer personalized treatment options to alleviate symptoms and restore function to the knee. Common treatment options include:

• Rest and Ice Therapy: Resting the knee and applying ice can help reduce swelling and relieve pain.
• Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with a locked knee.
• Physical Therapy: Exercises to strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve range of motion, and stabilize the joint.
• Meniscus Surgery: If a torn meniscus is causing the locking, surgical options like meniscectomy (removal of the damaged meniscus) or meniscus repair may be recommended.
• Ligament Surgery: In cases of ligament injuries (e.g., ACL tears), surgery may be required to repair or reconstruct the damaged ligament.
• Arthroscopic Surgery: This minimally invasive procedure allows the surgeon to remove loose bodies, repair cartilage damage, or correct other knee joint issues.
• Patellar Realignment Surgery: If patellar dislocation is the cause, surgery to realign or stabilize the kneecap may be necessary.
• Corticosteroid Injections: In cases of arthritis or inflammation, steroid injections can help reduce inflammation and improve knee function.
• Joint Replacement Surgery: In severe cases, such as advanced osteoarthritis, partial or total knee replacement surgery may be recommended.

Preventing Locked Knee

To help reduce the occurrence of a locked knee, consider these preventive measures:

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Excess body weight places additional strain on the knee joints, increasing the risk of injury and wear.
• Strengthen Muscles Around the Knee: Regular exercise to strengthen the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles can help stabilize the knee joint.
• Warm Up Properly: Before engaging in physical activities or sports, make sure to warm up and stretch to prevent knee strain or injury.
• Wear Proper Footwear: Supportive shoes can help maintain proper knee alignment and reduce the risk of knee injuries.
• Avoid Overuse or High-Impact Activities: Be mindful of activities that place excessive stress on the knees, especially if you have a history of knee problems.

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