Popliteus Syndrome
Popliteus Syndrome involves pain and dysfunction of the popliteus muscle, typically due to overuse, leading to posterolateral knee pain and instability.
Symptoms
- Sharp pain behind the knee
- Swelling and tightness
- Difficulty with downhill walking
- Instability or weakness in the knee
Causes & Risk Factors
- Overuse from repetitive knee flexion
- Tight hamstrings or calf muscles
- Sudden increase in training intensity
- Improper running technique
Diagnosis
- Clinical assessment with resisted knee flexion
- MRI to detect soft tissue involvement
- Exclusion of meniscal and ligament injuries
Effective Treatment Options
- Rest and activity modification
- Ice therapy and compression
- Manual therapy for tight muscles
- Strengthening and flexibility exercises
- Biomechanical retraining
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Popliteus Syndrome curable with physiotherapy?
Yes, targeted physiotherapy can relieve symptoms and restore function in most cases.
Is Popliteus Syndrome different from tendinitis?
Yes, Popliteus Syndrome may involve both muscular and tendinous issues, including mechanical dysfunction.
