When Knee stiffness becomes the problem, expertise matters
Dr. Jason Dragoo is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist with an international reputation for the surgical treatment of knee arthrofibrosis. Working alongside the International Arthrofibrosis Association, he leads a designated treatment center for patients with knee stiffness from around the world.
The treatment of arthrofibrosis is complex, and specialized surgery and physical therapy is often required. Many patients prefer treatment at arthrofibrosis centers, where surgery and post-operative physical therapy are synchronized and are performed by practitioners with many years of experience treating this condition.
Dr. Dragoo uses minimally invasive surgical techniques to release scar tissue, that requires the use of radiofrequency cautery. This technique releases areas of scar tissue but also prevent bleeding that can lead to recurrence of the scar tissue accumulation. He has described specific releases targeting losses in flexion or extension. Immediate physical therapy is performed to maintain the range of motion gained in surgery. Physical therapy techniques are also important to prevent increased inflammation and loss of motion, and should only be performed by therapists with significant experience.
WHY PATIENTS SEEK SPECIALIZED CARE
Arthrofibrosis can require a different level of assessment and rehabilitation planning.
A dedicated evaluation can help clarify where motion is restricted, what factors may be contributing to stiffness, and whether non-operative or surgical treatment is appropriate.
"World-renowned for his surgical treatment of arthrofibrosis (knee stiffness), patients travel to Denver from all over the world for surgery and specialized physical therapy."- International Arthrofibrosis Association website
THE CORE FOCUS
Arthrofibrosis is more than a "stiff knee."
Knee arthrofibrosis involves excessive scar tissue and can produce pain, restricted flexion or extension, and loss of normal knee motion. It can develop after injury or surgery and may be challenging when stiffness persists despite rehabilitation.
Loss of motion
Difficulty fully bending or straightening the knee can affect gait, strength and function.
Pain & inflammation
Persistent inflammation can cause scar tissue formation can accompany restricted motion.
Post-surgical stiffness
Arthrofibrosis may occur following procedures such as ACL reconstruction or knee replacement.
Complex recovery
Treatment may involve coordinated diagnosis, surgery when indicated, and carefully planned rehabilitation.
A CLEARER PATH FORWARD
From diagnosis to restored motion.
The goal is not simply to “operate on a stiff knee.” The goal is to understand why motion is limited, identify the structures involved, and match treatment to the individual patient.
01 • Evaluate
Understand the pattern
Review surgical history, symptoms, range of motion, imaging and factors that may be contributing to persistent stiffness.
02 • Diagnose
Find the restriction
Determine whether scar tissue, tissue shortening, implant issues, inflammation or another knee problem is driving the loss of motion.
03 • Treat
Choose the right intervention
Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include rehabilitation, minimally invasive surgery or a combination of strategies.
04 • Restore
Protect the result
Recovery requires an intentional rehabilitation plan focused on regaining and maintaining knee motion and function.
- Arthroscopic Releases for Arthrofibrosis of the Knee
- Arthroscopic Release for Symptomatic Scarring of the Anterior Interval of the Knee
- Arthroscopic Soft Tissue Releases of the Knee
- Restoration of Knee Volume Using Selected Arthroscopic Releases
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