Popliteus Injury
The Popliteus is a small muscle located at the back of the knee joint. It is responsible for internal rotation of the shin bone as well as for unlocking the knee joint when bending the knee from a fully straightened position.
Symptoms of Popliteus Injuries
- Pain at the back of the knee joint.
- Tenderness on palpation (pressing) the muscle.
- Pain or discomfort on resisted knee flexion when the Tibia is externally (laterally) rotated.
- Tight hamstrings are a common feature (e.g. less than 80 degrees hip flexion).
- In cases where the muscle has tightened considerably, full knee extension may be absent, or uncomfortable.
Treatment of Popliteus Injuries
What can the athlete do?
- Rest from aggravating activities.
- Stretch the hamstrings several times a day.
What can a sports injury professional do?
- Fully assess the injury and refer for imaging if required.
- Apply sports massage techniques to the muscle.
- Prescribe NSAID's (anti-inflammatories) such as ibuprofen if necessary.
- Apply ultrasound.
- Suggest a rehabilitation program to strengthen both the quadriceps and the hamstrings.
- A corticosteroid injection may be used if the above treatment fails.
