It is important to note that the popliteus is a small-sized muscle situated in the rear part of the knee joint. An injury or strain to the tendon or muscle can trigger pain at the rear region of the knee.
Symptoms
The symptoms of an injury to the popliteus usually include pain in the rear part of the knee joint. There is tenderness when the back of the knee is pressed. The pain is reproduced when the knee is bent against resistance while the lower leg is rotated outwards. An individual with this type of injury usually have tightened hamstrings. In case the injury is a severe one, straightening the knee fully will be difficult.
Close look on an injury to the popliteus
The popliteus muscle is the one responsible for the internal rotation of the shin bone as well as for unlocking the knee joint when the knee is bent from a fully straightened position. An injury to the popliteus muscle can be caused by an acute injury or overuse.
Acute injuries to the popliteus
When it comes to acute injuries to the popliteus, they tend to occur when the individual sustained a significant force to the knee. It is quite common in vehicular accidents or falls in which the affected knee is extended or overly straightened. In addition, it can also be damaged via impact which forces the knee out to the side. Injuries to the popliteus can also occur in connection with other injuries such as posterior cruciate ligament tears or even ACL ruptures.
Overuse injuries
Overuse injuries involving the popliteus develop in a gradual manner and most common among runners. It can be due to certain biomechanical issues as well as tight hamstring muscles.
Treatment
The individual should find time away from aggravating activities. Remember that complete rest is not necessary but avoiding anything that triggers pain or worsens the injury must be avoided.
You can apply an ice pack right after the injury. It must be applied for 10 minutes every hour for the initial 24-48 hours during the acute stage, but make sure that the ice pack is covered in a clean cloth or towel. If you want to learn more on how to effectively provide cold therapy, enroll in a first aid class. (Read here for more information on the classes offered).
After the acute stage, mild stretching of the hamstring muscles must be performed several times in a day as long as the pain allows. The stretches must be held for 20 seconds at a time and repeated 3 times. It is recommended to use a heat retainer or knee support to protect the muscle as well as promote the flow of blood.
The doctor or sports injury professional will fully assess the injury and might refer for imaging tests if needed. In most cases, deep tissue sports massage will be performed to the muscle along with ultrasound therapy. A full rehabilitation program to strengthen both the quadriceps and the hamstrings must be performed. The doctor will prescribe NSAIDs or anti-inflammatories if needed. For severe or persistent cases, a corticosteroid injection might be used if other treatment options failed.