What to expect from physiotherapy for osteochondritis dissecans

Osteochondritis dissecans involves an area of bone and the nearby cartilage, often around a knee or another joint. The safe amount of loading depends on the lesion, symptoms, imaging, age, and whether a specialist has advised activity restriction or surgery. Physiotherapy should follow that medical plan rather than push through joint pain.

At an assessment, the therapist may check swelling, range of motion, walking or running mechanics, muscle control, and how the joint responds to weight bearing. Early goals may include maintaining movement and strength without irritating the affected area.

Your programme may begin with gentle movement, isometric muscle work, and exercises that limit stress on the involved joint. As healing and symptoms allow, it can progress to strengthening, balance, coordination, and task-specific drills. Use any brace, crutches, or weight-bearing instructions exactly as prescribed. Keep the therapist informed about locking, catching, swelling, or pain after activity; these details help determine whether the next step is appropriate.

Arrange prompt medical review if the joint locks, gives way repeatedly, becomes markedly swollen, or you cannot put weight through it as instructed. Seek urgent care after a major injury with severe pain, deformity, or loss of sensation. New fever with a hot, swollen joint also needs urgent assessment. Do not resume impact sport until the treating team has cleared it.

What loading limits apply to my joint? Is physiotherapy being used before or after another treatment? Which symptoms mean I should stop an exercise? When can I begin impact activities?