Nonsurgical measures can remedy most cases of plica syndrome. The primary goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation. To do this, you may have to give up such exercises as cycling and using a stair machine. Your doctor may suggest anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or aspirin if not contraindicated. You may also be advised to reduce activity and avoid compression wraps (elastic bandage) to the knee.
Ice packs or ice massage may also help reduce the inflammation and swelling in the area of the plica, and may be suggested by your doctor or physical therapist. To restore your muscle balance, your doctor may also recommend exercises to strengthen your entire lower extremity and stretch all the muscle tendon units about your knee. A cortisone injection into the area of the plica, or simply into the knee joint may quickly help to reduce the inflammation around the plica but should be considered only by your doctor in your particular case.
If these non-surgical treatments don't relieve your symptoms within several months, you may consider the option of arthroscopic surgery to remove the irritated plica. There are no known problems associated with not having a plica, so you won't miss the structure and you should expect recovery.
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