Arthrofibrosis 

Arthrofibrosis refers to a pathological proliferation of connective tissue cells in joints. This condition is caused by inflammation, which most commonly occurs following knee surgery. However, painful arthrofibrosis can also develop in the elbow and all other joints in the human body.

Arthrofibrosis: One condition – two types

Arthrofibrosis is divided into two types, which must be diagnostically identified to ensure effective treatment. These are primary and secondary arthrofibrosis. The aetiology of the primary form remains unclear to this day, but it is mostly diagnosed post-operatively and is associated with generalised scarring within the joint. In primary arthrofibrosis, treatment is aimed at managing the pain, and a longer treatment period is scheduled. This form of joint change does not necessarily result from mechanical stress, even though the condition is frequently diagnosed following surgery or reconstruction of the knee joint. In contrast, secondary arthrofibrosis is largely caused by mechanical factors. Surgical and transplant complications, as well as impingement symptoms, underlie the secondary form of the condition.

 

Detecting arthrofibrosis at an early stage

Diagnosis at an early stage is possible and prevents painful, long-term restriction of the patient’s mobility. If arthrofibrosis is detected whilst it is still developing and appropriate measures are taken to curb the proliferation of connective tissue cells, complete immobility of the knee joint can be prevented. The course of arthrofibrosis is variable and does not always present with clear clinical symptoms. If a patient suffers from severe joint pain, particularly when bending or flexing the knees, arthrofibrosis and the associated pain should be suspected. In addition to severe pain, redness and warmth, swelling or the formation of effusions, and extensive scarring within the joint may indicate arthrofibrosis. The earlier the condition is diagnosed, the greater the chances of successful treatment leading to the full restoration of mobility and relief from pain.

Different forms of treatment for secondary and primary arthrofibrosis

The secondary form can usually be treated by arthroscopic removal of the scar tissue and excess connective tissue, as well as by adjusting the graft that has been inserted. Treatment for primary arthrofibrosis is more difficult, as surgical intervention is rarely successful. In such cases, long-term physiotherapy measures, as well as LuXXaMed combined with lymphatic drainage, are recommended. Arthrofibrosis is a joint condition that occurs predominantly, though not exclusively, in the knee. In other joints, the condition is often not recognised until a late stage, leading to prolonged treatment and severe pain for the patient. Joint stiffness should be investigated with regard to arthrofibrosis, and the presence or absence of excess connective tissue should be confirmed or ruled out through diagnostic tests.

LuXXaMed for arthrofibrosis

The Rehaplus Odenwald Therapy Centre specialises, amongst other things, in the treatment of arthrofibrosis. Physiotherapist Frank Leutz uses the LuXXaMed to analyse and improve metabolism in this form of the condition. The LuXXaMed is used not only for pain management but also for detoxification and to improve the lymphatic system.

Patient interview following treatment

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