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Plica in the Knee

Topic Overview

Plica in the knee is a ridge or fold of the tissues lining the knee joint (synovium).

Normally a plica does not cause problems, but it can become inflamed and thickened from injury or overuse. This is called "plica syndrome." Plica syndrome can interfere with normal joint function and cause pain when the thickened plica rubs over other structures in the knee. It can usually be treated with rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medicine such as ibuprofen, and exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles around the knee.

Related Information

Credits

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Patrick J. McMahon, MD - Orthopedic Surgery
Last Revised January 9, 2012

Last Revised: January 9, 2012

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & Patrick J. McMahon, MD - Orthopedic Surgery

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