Sprains and Strain of the Popliteus Tendon

Definition:
An injury to the popliteus tendon when the joint is carried through a range of motion greater than normal, but without dilocation or fracture; or an injury resulting from tensile force
Symptoms:
  • Pain behind the knee
  • Swelling behind the knee
  • Loss of ROM in the knee
Causes:
  • Trauma to the knee
  • Muscle imbalance (lateral hamstrings stronger than the medial hamstrings)
  • Overpronation
  • Running in worn shoes
Treatment:
  • ROM and stretching
  • Soft tissue massage
  • Knee stabilization exercises
  • Lower extremity strengthening
  • Gait program