Understanding Plica Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Physiotherapy Treatment

Plica syndrome is a condition characterized by thickened and inflamed synovial folds in the knee, causing pain and impairment. Learn about the types, symptoms, and physiotherapy treatments for plica syndrome at Arunalaya Advanced Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation in Patel Nagar, Delhi.

Introduction:
Plica syndrome refers to a painful impairment of knee function caused by thickened and inflamed synovial folds, typically found in the medial region of the knee. Synovial tissue lines the knee joint, producing fluid to lubricate the joint. While most synovial folds shrink or disappear over time, in some individuals, they remain thickened and can irritate the knee joint, leading to plica syndrome. At Arunalaya Advanced Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation in Patel Nagar, Delhi, we specialize in providing effective physiotherapy treatments for plica syndrome. In this blog, we will explore the types, symptoms, and physiotherapy interventions for managing this condition.

Types of Plica:
There are four types of plicae in the knee joint, distinguished by their anatomical location:
1. Suprapatellar
2. Mediopatellar
3. Infrapatellar
4. Lateral plicae
These plicae can vary in structure and size, with variations such as fibrous or fatty composition and longitudinal or crescent-shaped forms.

Symptoms of Plica Syndrome:
Plica syndrome is characterized by the following symptoms:
- Pain with repeated activities, such as climbing stairs, cycling, or running, localized on the inside of the knee
- Tenderness and swelling over the affected plica
- Snapping or clicking sensation when bending the knee
- Knee pain after a fall on the knee, leading to swelling in the medial plica
- Buckling or instability of the knee
- Knee pain experienced while sitting

Physical Examination:
During a physical examination, a healthcare professional may observe the following signs:
- Tenderness in the medial parapatellar region
- Painful, palpable medial parapatellar cord
- Ability to roll and feel a popping sensation beneath the examiner's finger
- Provocative tests to assess pain and clicking

Physiotherapy Treatment for Plica Syndrome:
At Arunalaya Advanced Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, our expert physiotherapists offer comprehensive treatment strategies for plica syndrome. The primary goals of physiotherapy treatment include pain relief, improving mobility and strength, and correcting biomechanical abnormalities. The following interventions may be employed:
- Pain relief measures such as cryotherapy using ice packs or ice massage
- Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
- Low-level Laser Therapy (LLLT) or Ultrasound (UST) to reduce inflammation
- Shockwave therapy
- Manual therapy techniques
- Dry needling
- Myofascial Release (MFR)
- Kinesiology taping for additional support and pain relief
- Exercise programs to improve mobility and strengthen the affected muscles
- Modification of daily physical movements to reduce repetitive flexion and extension movements and address biomechanical issues

Conclusion:
If you are experiencing pain, swelling, or clicking in your knee, it's important to seek professional help for a proper diagnosis and treatment. At Arunalaya Advanced Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation in Patel Nagar, Delhi, our dedicated team of physiotherapists specializes in managing plica syndrome. Through personalized treatment plans incorporating various techniques such as cryotherapy, manual therapy, exercise programs, and more, we aim to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance your overall quality of life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a pain-free knee.