Osteochondritis Dissecans
Osteochondritis Dissecans
This is a joint condition which leads to the death of the bone underneath the joint cartilage due to reduce blood flow. Because of this bone and cartilage can break loose leading to pain and possibly restricted joint motion. Onset usually occur in children and adolescents. Mostly knees and sometimes elbows, ankles and other joints are affected.
Symptoms
Symptoms of this condition include:
- Severe pain which can be triggered by physical activities like playing sports or hicking.
- Joint become swollen and tender
- Joint become pop or stick in one position if loose fragment gets between bones during movement.
- Restricted range of motion
- Weakness of joint
Causes
Although the exact cause of this condition is not known but studies shows that restricted blood flow to the end of bone affected might result from persistent and repetitive trauma which can be small, multiple episodes of minor or unrecognized trauma that result in the
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of this condition depends upon detailed medical history and complete general physical examination of the patient. Other tests include:
- Imaging tests like Xray, MRI, CT scan.
Treatment
Treatment options are as follows:
- Physical therapy along with rest to the joint from strenuous activities
- Surgical repair