Clinical Presentation & Protocol
Patient Usually Complains Of
Patient presents with chronic, insidious onset of right lateral knee pain. Symptoms are characterized by intermittent mechanical symptoms including catching and clicking, exacerbated by squatting, twisting, or prolonged ambulation. No history of acute trauma. Pain is described as dull, aching, and localized to the joint line.
Clinical Examination Findings
Right knee examination reveals tenderness to palpation along the lateral joint line. McMurrayโs test is positive for lateral meniscus provocation. Range of motion is full but associated with crepitus. No significant joint effusion or ligamentous instability (LCL, ACL, PCL, MCL intact). Gait is non-antalgic but patient reports discomfort with deep flexion.
Treatment Protocol
Conservative management initiated: Activity modification to avoid deep squatting and repetitive twisting. Physical therapy referral for quadriceps and hamstring strengthening. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as needed for pain control. Consider intra-articular corticosteroid or viscosupplementation injection if symptoms persist.