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Fabella Syndrome

A Rare Cause of Posterior Knee Pain & Discomfort

What is Fabella Syndrome?

Fabella Syndrome is a rare condition characterized by pain and discomfort behind the knee due to irritation of the fabella, a small sesamoid bone located in the lateral head of the gastrocnemius muscle. This bone is present in some individuals and can cause pain, inflammation, and restricted movement when it becomes irritated or compressed.

Causes of Fabella Syndrome

  • Excessive Knee Flexion & Extension
  • Direct Trauma or Injury
  • Osteoarthritis & Cartilage Degeneration
  • Chronic Pressure on the Fabella

Treatment & Management of Fabella Syndrome

Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatment
  • Rest & Activity Modification – Avoid excessive knee flexion and high-impact activities.
  • Pain Medications (NSAIDs) – Reduces inflammation and discomfort.
  • Physiotherapy & Stretching – Focuses on strengthening surrounding muscles.
  • Bracing & Taping – Provides support and minimizes stress on the fabella.
  • Corticosteroid Injections – Helps reduce pain and swelling in severe cases.
Surgical Treatment (If Pain Persists)
  • Fabella Removal (Fabellectomy) – Surgically excising the fabella to relieve symptoms.
  • Tendon or Ligament Release – If tight structures are contributing to compression.
  • Minimally Invasive Arthroscopic Techniques – To ensure a quicker recovery.
Symptoms of Fabella Syndrome
  • Pain Behind the Knee – Worsens with movement, especially knee bending.
  • Swelling & Tenderness – Inflammation around the fabella region.
  • Difficulty in Knee Extension – Painful or restricted straightening of the leg.
  • Clicking or Popping Sensation – Due to the fabella rubbing against surrounding structures.
  • Pain While Squatting, Running, or Climbing Stairs – Aggravated by activities that involve knee flexion.
Diagnosis of Fabella Syndrome
  • Physical Examination – Palpation of the posterior knee to identify localized pain.
  • X-Ray Imaging – Detects the presence and position of the fabella.
  • MRI or CT Scan – Assesses soft tissue inflammation and surrounding structural issues.
  • Ultrasound – Evaluates dynamic movement of the fabella during knee motion.
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