Knee lock is when the knee cannot be straightened or bent due to loose cartilage or a bone fragment. It can also be caused by muscle strain or injury. Arthritis and aging can increase the risk. Medical evaluation is necessary to prevent permanent damage.
Knee lock refers to the problem that occurs when the knee cannot be straightened or bent. This blockage most commonly occurs when loose cartilage or a bone fragment has jammed or jammed the knee joint. A misalignment of muscles or bones due to muscle strain or injury can also cause this condition. In both situations, the knee can stiffen and freeze, which is accompanied by extreme pain. To treat knee lock, it’s important to know what caused the initial symptoms.
Arthritis and natural aging can increase the risk of knee lock. Over time, the cartilage surrounding the knee bones can wear away, causing them to break. Cartilaginous material can become lodged within the knee joint mechanism, making it impossible to bend the leg. If the cartilage is completely worn away, it is also possible for a chipped bone fragment to become embedded in the knee mechanism. This is referred to as osteochondritis dissecans.
Strenuous exercise or strain on the thigh muscles can cause a blockage. Any weakness or tightness in the outer thigh muscles can affect the kneecap. The tension causes the muscle to contract, which can lead to misalignment of the kneecap. It will remain locked in this position until the muscle returns to normal. Even when the kneecap is properly aligned, it can take a long time to achieve the knee’s normal range of motion.
When a knee joint is injured or strained, there may be symptoms similar to a locked knee but it is not considered true knee lock. A knee lock involves the inability to bend or move the knee, not just pain. A slight bump on the kneecap or running or jumping too hard can cause a locking sensation in the knee, which is called a pseudo-lockout. While the discomfort and pain may be real, the knee can still have a range of motion. The pseudo-block usually disappears within a few days.
Anytime there is limitation of knee motion, a medical evaluation should be done. Left unchecked, a bone chip or loose cartilage can cause permanent damage to the knee. Debris in the knee that is causing a blockage may need to be surgically removed.
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