Conditions & Diagnoses: A-Z

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Knee Stiffness

Definition:
Nonspecific term for limited knee mobility, often due to muscle cramps and spasm accompanied by pain.
Symptoms:
  • Stiffness in the knee
  • Swelling in the knee
  • Locking or clicking in the knee
  • Loss of ROM in the knee
Causes:
  • Fractures of bone
  • Inflammation of tendons or bursae
  • Damage to the cartilage of the kneecap
  • Ligament injury
  • Arthritis
Treatment:
  • ROM and stretching
  • Knee stabilization exercises
  • Lower extremity strengthening exercises
  • Soft tissue massage