Which specialist treats plica syndrome?

Plica syndrome occurs when a fold of the knee lining becomes irritated and rubs during movement. A knee specialist asks about activity, injury, swelling, and the location of pain, then checks tenderness, range of motion, alignment, and stability. Knee Clicking and Grinding may occur with irritation, but clicking alone does not establish the diagnosis.

The examination also considers cartilage, meniscus, tendon, and kneecap problems. Imaging may be used when the findings are unclear or another injury is suspected; the scan does not replace a physical examination.

Arrange assessment if knee pain persists, limits sport or stairs, or returns whenever activity increases. Physiotherapy may use temporary load reduction, thigh and hip strengthening, flexibility work, and a gradual return to movement. Your clinician can tailor the plan to the irritated tissue and your goals.

If symptoms continue after appropriate rehabilitation, an orthopaedic knee specialist may discuss further evaluation or Knee Arthroscopy. Surgery is not the starting point for every person and should follow a review of the diagnosis and non-surgical care.

Seek prompt care for a hot, very swollen knee, fever, inability to bear weight, or a significant injury. Contact a clinician soon if the knee repeatedly gives way or becomes stuck. Knee Locking that prevents movement needs assessment because it can reflect a problem other than plica irritation.

Ask what examination findings point to plica syndrome, which competing causes were considered, how to adjust exercise, and what improvement should look like. If arthroscopy is proposed, ask what problem it is intended to address and what rehabilitation would involve.