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Knee OCD

  • 20 May 2025
Knee OCD

Knee Osteochondritis Dissecans: A Guide for Parents

If your child has been diagnosed with knee osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), you probably have many questions. Here’s what you need to know:

What Is Knee Osteochondritis Dissecans?

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is a condition that affects the knee joint, where a small piece of bone and the cartilage covering it begin to loosen. This happens because the blood supply to the area is reduced, which can cause pain and joint problems.

What Causes It?

The exact cause of OCD isn’t always clear, but it’s often linked to:

  • Repetitive stress on the knee, such as from sports or physical activity.
  • Genetics, as it can sometimes run in families.
  • Reduced blood flow to the affected bone, which can weaken it over time.

Are There Different Types?

Yes, there are two main types:

  • Juvenile OCD - Occurs in children and teenagers whose bones are still growing. It has a better chance of healing on its own and we normally wait for 3 months and associate that with activity restrictions.
  • Adult OCD - Happens after growth plates have closed, meaning the bone is fully developed. This type is less likely to heal without treatment.

Symptoms

Your child may experience:

  • Pain in the knee, especially after activity.
  • Swelling or tenderness.
  • A feeling that the knee is locking, catching, or giving way.
  • Reduced movement or stiffness in the knee.

Possible Complications

If untreated, OCD can lead to:

  • Pieces of bone and cartilage breaking loose in the joint (called a "loose body"), which may cause pain and movement problems.
  • Early arthritis due to joint damage.

How Is It Diagnosed?

  • Examine your child's knee and ask about symptoms.
  • Order imaging tests like X-rays or an MRI to check the bone and cartilage.

Treatment Options

Non-Surgical Treatments (for mild cases):

  • Rest and avoiding high-impact activities.
  • Using crutches or a knee brace to reduce stress on the joint.
  • Physical therapy to strengthen muscles around the knee.

Surgical Treatments (for severe cases):

  • Drilling small holes in the affected bone to help it heal.
  • Fixing or removing loose bone/cartilage if it has detached.
  • Cartilage replacement in rare cases if significant damage has occurred.

Recovery

  • Healing can take several months, depending on the severity.
  • Younger children with growing bones often heal better.
  • Physical therapy helps restore strength and movement.
  • A gradual return to sports and activities is important to prevent re-injury.

Can It Be Prevented?

While not always preventable, you can reduce the risk by:

  • Encouraging proper warm-ups before sports.
  • Avoiding excessive strain on the knee by balancing rest and activity.
  • Using proper footwear and protective gear.
  • Seeking medical attention if your child complains of persistent knee pain.

If you have concerns about your child's knee health, consult a doctor early to ensure proper care and recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can my child play sports again?
A: Yes, but only after full recovery. Returning too soon may cause re-injury.

Q: Will my child need surgery?
A: Not always. Many mild cases heal with rest and therapy, but more severe ones may require surgery.

Q: How long does healing take?
A: It depends on severity. Mild cases take a few months; surgical cases may take 6+ months.