Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) Non-Surgical Treatment

During flare-ups of pain, it is essential to rest the knee and avoid activities that worsen the pain.

Oral anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications, such as Meloxicam, Naproxen, Advil, or Ibuprofen, may help to manage the pain and reduce inflammation of the knee. Applying ice packs and compression to the knee can also help reduce swelling and inflammation. Remember to use a cloth or towel between the ice pack and your skin to avoid frostbite.

A structured physical therapy program can be beneficial for strengthening the muscles around the knee and improving overall joint stability. A physical therapist can guide you through exercises that focus on the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles to provide this additional support to the knee. Additionally, proprioceptive training can enhance knee stability. Proprioception is the body’s ability to sense joint position and movement, and improved proprioception can help with knee stability and control during activities. It is important to complete any home exercises that your physical therapist provides to you in order to optimize your recovery.

An unloader brace is a specific type of knee brace designed to offload the compartment of the knee that includes the OCD lesion. The unloader brace offers mechanical support, stabilization, and symptomatic relief while also protecting the knee compartment and promoting overall joint health and preservation.

The goal of an intra-articular injection is to manage pain and inflammation of the knee. Therefore, injections may be used as a short-term measure to manage these symptoms during an episode of more intense pain. However, it’s crucial to understand that an intra-articular injection will not heal an OCD lesion. Additionally, receiving an intra-articular injection to the knee will delay any surgical intervention for at least 3 months following the administration of the injection.