Catching of the knee
There might be the sensation that something is getting in the way of joint movement. This is different to locking of the knee when it will not bend or straighten from the position that it is in. Catching can be caused by:
- Loose bodies
- Cartilage flaps
- Meniscal tears
- Inflamed tissue.
OCD or Osteochondritis Dissecans
One of the most common causes of catching is OCD or Osteochondritis Dissecans. If there has been a patella dislocation a fragment may break off the patella and float around the knee.
Catching occurs when a joint tries to go from straight to bending and as it arcs through that motion, something gets caught between the joint surfaces. A detailed history, physical examination, x-ray and/or MRI scan almost always results in an accurate diagnosis. Repeated catching and locking usually damage the joint surfaces and should be treated.
Almost all causes of catching require treatment with an arthroscopy.