Locking knee

This is the inability to bend or straighten the knee. It usually is associated with a meniscus tear. A meniscus is a layer of cartilage surrounding the surface of the two bones that form the knee joint (femur and the tibia). It helps distribute the weight evenly over the joining surfaces. It also provides proprioception- a sense of where the joint lies during movement. Hence, when your meniscus is injured you may also sense a 'giving way' of the knee.

This tear usually occurs when the knee is bent and twisted on a fixed foot. It may be due to trauma or wear and tear. Sometimes if the injury is very traumatic, the medial collateral ligament and anterior cruciate ligament can also tear, giving rise to a condition called as an 'unhappy triad'.

Locking Knee Treatments

It is important to examine the knee thoroughly and depending on the extent of damage, we would suggest an appropriate rehabilitation. Some may be advised surgery but this would depend on region of the tear, your activity levels and response to rehabilitation.

For more information on the conditions we treat and services we offer, or to book an appointment please call
020 8847 1887 or email us at reception@ealingphysio.co.uk