Symptoms, Causes and Treatments for Loose Bodies in the Knee

Loose bodies in the knee can be a source of discomfort and pain for many people. These bodies are pieces of bone or cartilage that have broken off and are now floating around in the joint, causing irritation and inflammation. There are different possible causes of loose bodies in the knee and various symptoms that can alert you to this condition. Here are some of the causes, symptoms and treatments for loose bodies in the knee joint.

Symptoms and Causes of Loose Bodies in Knee

One of the most common symptoms of loose bodies in the knee is pain. This pain can be sharp or dull and may be felt in different parts of the knee, depending on where the bodies are located. Swelling and stiffness in the knee joint are common symptoms, as well as clicking or popping sounds when the knee is moved.

There are several different causes of loose bodies in the knee. One common cause is a traumatic injury, such as a fall or a sports injury. When a bone or cartilage is damaged in this way, it can break off and become a loose body in the joint. Another cause is degenerative joint disease, such as osteoarthritis. Over time, the cartilage in the knee joint can wear away, causing loose bodies to form.

Loose Bodies in Knee Treatment

Treatments for loose bodies in the knee vary depending on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, rest and physical therapy may be enough to alleviate symptoms and prevent further damage. Ice and compression can also help reduce swelling and pain. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the loose bodies from the joint.

Different surgical procedures can remove loose bodies from the knee joint. Arthroscopic surgery is a minimally invasive procedure in which a tiny camera is inserted into the joint to guide the surgeon in removing the bodies. Open surgery is a more invasive procedure in which a larger incision is made in the knee to remove the bodies, resulting in higher risks and longer recovery times – knee arthroscopy is the preferred method for removing damaged knee particles.

After surgery, it is essential to rest and allow the knee to heal properly. Physical therapy may also be necessary to regain strength and mobility in the knee joint. In some cases, medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to help manage pain and inflammation.

Preventing loose bodies in the knee can be difficult, but there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk. Maintaining a healthy weight can help to reduce the strain on your knee joints, while regular exercise can help to strengthen the muscles that support your knees. Wearing proper footwear and protective gear when engaging in sports or other physical activities can also help prevent injuries leading to loose bodies in the knee.

Advanced Procedures for Loose Bodies in the Knee

Loose bodies in the knee can be a painful and uncomfortable condition, but treatments are available to alleviate symptoms and prevent further damage. If you are experiencing symptoms of loose bodies in the knee, contact our team at Robotic Joint Center. We offer minimally-invasive knee arthroscopy to remove damaged bone and cartilage from your knee to give you relief from chronic knee pain. Call our clinic in NYC to schedule a knee consultation with Frederick F. Buechel, Jr. MD, our board-certified orthopedic surgeon.