Clinical Presentation & Protocol
Patient Usually Complains Of
Patient presents with chronic, insidious onset of right medial knee pain, exacerbated by weight-bearing activities, squatting, and twisting motions. Reports intermittent mechanical symptoms including catching, locking, and localized joint line tenderness. No history of acute trauma. Pain is described as dull/aching, localized to the medial joint line.
Clinical Examination Findings
Right knee examination reveals localized tenderness along the medial joint line. Range of motion is full but may be limited by discomfort at terminal flexion. McMurray test is positive for medial meniscus provocation. Joint effusion is absent or mild. Ligamentous stability (ACL/PCL/MCL/LCL) is intact. No signs of acute inflammation or neurovascular deficit.
Treatment Protocol
Conservative management initiated: Activity modification, avoidance of deep squatting/twisting, and physical therapy focusing on quadriceps strengthening and range of motion. NSAIDs as needed for pain control. Consider intra-articular corticosteroid injection or viscosupplementation if symptoms persist. Referral for MRI to confirm degenerative pathology and assess for surgical candidacy.