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Osteochondritis dissecans (loose piece of bone in a joint)

Also called: Osteochondritis dissecans, OCD lesion

A piece of bone and cartilage loosens in a joint, usually the knee, in active kids and teens.

TreatmentRest, sometimes surgery

Overview

A small area of bone loses blood supply and can loosen with cartilage.

It's most common in the knee, elbow, and ankle of active kids.

Symptoms

Common signs:

  • Joint pain with activity

Less common

  • Locking

When to get medical care

Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayNew or worse symptoms, or symptoms with fever.
See a doctor soonSymptoms that last or keep coming back.

Causes

Repeated stress.

Does it spread or run in families?

  • It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

  • Teens

Possible complications

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

  • MRI:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

  • Rest from sports
  • Rest from impact sports
  • Use crutches if advised

Which doctor treats this

  • Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
  • They may send you to an orthopedist (bone and joint doctor).
  • A physical therapist can help with exercises to rebuild strength and motion.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

  • Young athletes: Most common.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

  • If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
  • Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
  • Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
  • Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Many heal with rest in growing children.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

  • A list of your medicines and supplements
  • Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

  • What's causing this?
  • What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Osteochondritis dissecans (loose piece of bone in a joint)

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-12.