Synovial Plica Syndrome of the Knee: A Commonly Overlooked Cause of Anterior Knee Pain

Abstract

Synovial plica syndrome (SPS) occurs in the knee, when an otherwise normal structure becomes a source of pain due to injury or overuse. Patients may present to general practitioners, physiotherapists, or surgeons with anterior knee pain with or without mechanical symptoms, and the diagnosis can sometimes be difficult. Several studies have examined the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment of SPS. We review these resources to provide an evidence-based guide to the diagnosis and treatment of SPS of the knee.

Keywords

plica - knee - synovial shelf syndrome - anterior knee pain

Bibliography

All the following web sites have free access

1. Cochrane Intervention Review 2015; CD010387. http://www.cochrane.org/CD010387/MUSKINJ_exercise-therapy-for-adolescents-and-adults-with-pain-behind-or-around-the-kneecap-patellofemoral-pain. Accessed January 3, 2017

2. Exercise therapy for adolescents and adults with pain behind or around the kneecap. American Academy of Family Physicians 2007 Jan 15;75(2):194–202. http://www.aafp.org/afp/2003/0901/p917.html. Accessed January 3, 2017

3. Anterior knee pain - Diagnosis and management Guidance of management for anterior knee pain. The Australian Knee Society, Australian Orthopaedic Association. http://www.kneesociety.org.au/resources/aks-arthroscopy-position-statment.pdf. Accessed January 3, 2017

4. Position Statement from the Australian Knee Society on Arthroscopic Surgery of the Knee, with particular reference to the presence of Osteoarthritis Resources for patients. A patient resource for and about anterior knee pain. http://www.patient.co.uk/doctor/anterior-knee-pain. Accessed January 3, 2017

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