Description A loose fragment of...
Description
A loose fragment of bone or cartilage that causes a painful joint. The knees or elbows are the most common joints involved. The loose fragment may become lodged into the joint causing it to give way or cause it to lock. These loose fragments of bone or joints are sometimes called joint mice.
Symptoms
Pain and swelling of the knee, pain that gets worse with exercise, locking or giving way by the knee, elbow pain and swelling.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A X-ray may be normal, or it may show a chip from the tibia (shin bone) at the edge of the knee joint.
Specialists:
Orthopedic Surgery, Pediatric Sports Medicine, Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A X-ray may be normal, or it may show a chip from the tibia (shin bone) at the edge of the knee joint.
Specialists:
Orthopedic Surgery, Pediatric Sports Medicine, Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery
Treatment
Treatment starts with rest, ice, acetaminophen (Tylenol), and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (ibuprofen/Motrin or Advil, naproxen/Naprosyn). Splinting or bracing of the knee for 6-8 weeks may be recommended. Rarely surgery may be needed.