Popliteus Injury

What is Popliteus?

Popliteus is a muscle located at the back of the knee joint. It crosses the back of the joint, almost horizontally, just below the crease of the knee. Its function involves rotating the shin bone inwards, as well as 'unlocking' the knee when bending from a fully straight position.

The popliteus muscle can be injured in one of two ways. More often than not it is an overuse injury, resulting in increased tone (i.e. tightness) in the muscle. This is usually because of poor biomechanics, training errors and tight hamstrings. Or it can be torn, usually during a fall or tackle etc, where the knee is over-straightened.

Symptoms of a Popliteus injury include:

• Pain at the back of the knee.
• Tenderness when feeling the area of the muscle.
• Pain on resisted knee bending, especially with the shin bone rotated outwards.
• Pain may have developed gradually or suddenly.

Treatment

• Rest from the aggravating activity and apply ice in acute injuries.
• Visit a sports injury professional, who may:
• Use sports massage techniques to relax the muscle.
• Use ultrasound in suspected tears (minimum 48 hours post injury).
• Advise on exercises, especially hamstring stretches.
• Advise on training and biomechanics.

Recommended Products:

• Cold therapy - Ice packs and wraps can be used to ease pain and reduce inflammation.
• Knee supports - A knee support may be worn to provide mild support and heat retention.

Please see the Virtual Sports Injury Clinic for more information on how to treat a Popliteus Injury and other causes of knee pain.