Osteochondritis Dissecans is a condition where part of the bone and cartilage in a joint loosens or breaks off, causing pain and limiting movement.

• Repetitive stress on the joint: Repeated movement or trauma to the joint can weaken the bone and cartilage.
• Genetic predisposition: In some cases, the condition may run in families.
• Blood flow issues: Reduced blood supply to the affected bone may cause the tissue to die and loosen from the joint.

• Age: It is most common in children and adolescents, particularly those involved in sports or activities that place stress on the joints.
• Gender: Boys tend to be more affected than girls, likely due to their higher participation in high-impact activities.
• Sports: Athletes who participate in repetitive, high-impact sports like football, soccer, or gymnastics are at a higher risk.
• Injuries: Individuals who have suffered joint injuries are more prone to developing OCD.

• Pain: The most frequent symptom is joint pain, especially after physical activity or movement.
• Swelling: The affected joint may become swollen, particularly after exercise.
• Locking or catching: In some cases, the joint may feel like it's locking or catching, making it difficult to move smoothly.
• Stiffness: You may notice stiffness in the joint, especially after periods of rest.
• Limited range of motion: Over time, it can become harder to fully bend or extend the joint.

• Sudden, severe pain: If pain in the joint comes on quickly and is intense, it could indicate that a piece of cartilage has broken loose.
• Locking of the joint: If the joint locks up and you are unable to move it, this may signal a more serious issue.
• Loss of joint function: Difficulty moving the joint, especially if it worsens rapidly, should be evaluated by a doctor.

• X-rays: X-rays are often the first imaging test used to look at the bones in the affected joint. They can help identify any loose fragments of bone or cartilage.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): An MRI provides a more detailed view of the joint, including the cartilage. It can show how severe the damage is and whether the bone is still attached to the joint.
• CT Scan: In some cases, a CT scan may be used to get a closer look at the bone structure and any loose fragments.

• Non-surgical treatments: For less severe cases of Osteochondritis Dissecans, doctors often recommend a combination of non-surgical approaches to promote healing. Reducing physical activity, particularly high-impact sports, is crucial to give the joint time to heal. In some situations, a brace or cast may be used to immobilize the joint, preventing further stress. Physical therapy can also play an important role in strengthening the muscles around the joint and improving flexibility. To manage pain and inflammation, over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be effective.
• Surgical treatments: When non-surgical methods are not effective, surgical treatments may be necessary. One common procedure is arthroscopy, a minimally invasive surgery that uses small incisions and a camera to remove or reattach loose fragments of bone and cartilage. In less severe cases, doctors may use drilling, where small holes are made in the affected bone to encourage healing and improve blood flow. For more serious damage, bone grafting may be required, where a bone graft is used to repair and stabilize the damaged area.

• Persistent joint pain: If you experience ongoing pain in the joint that doesn’t improve with rest, consult a doctor.
• Joint locking or catching: If your joint feels like it locks up or catches during movement, this could indicate a more serious problem.
• Swelling or tenderness: Swelling or sensitivity in the joint, especially after physical activity, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

• Avoid overuse of joints: Engage in activities that are easier on your joints, and try to limit repetitive, high-impact activities that place stress on the knees, elbows, or ankles.
• Wear proper protective gear: If you participate in sports, make sure to wear appropriate footwear and protective gear to reduce the risk of joint injuries.
• Take rest breaks: Ensure you’re giving your joints enough rest during physical activity to avoid unnecessary stress or strain.
• Strengthen muscles: Engage in regular strength training exercises that target the muscles surrounding your joints to provide better support and stability.

• Cross-training: Mixing up your exercise routines with low-impact activities, such as swimming or cycling, can help keep your joints healthy while minimizing strain.
• Stretching: Incorporate regular stretching to improve flexibility and reduce the likelihood of injury.
• Monitor for early symptoms: If you notice any joint discomfort, swelling, or reduced range of motion, seek medical advice early to prevent worsening of the condition.