Osteochondritis dissecans

Patients being managed conservatively should be advised to avoid repetitive loading activities, including running, jumping, and throwing. They should also avoid other activities that cause pain in the involved joint. Often the patient will need to completely unload the joint and avoid weight-bearing.

NSAIDs and/or acetaminophen can be used for symptomatic treatment, but activity modification should be the first mode of pain control. Inform patients not to use NSAIDs as a means to continue with loading activities.

Physical therapy may be added, to work at maintaining range of movement and to promote fitness and strength training without loading the involved joint.