Prognosis
After arthroscopy, the symptoms usually improve after a very short time, unless there is already significant cartilage damage. In this case, there is no complete improvement even after removal of the plica.
Summary
Shelf syndrome is caused by a thickening of a fold of mucous membrane in the knee. This thickening can be caused by trauma, inflammation and muscle imbalances, i.e. by unbalanced muscle tension. This causes pain especially on the inside of the knee.
The diagnosis can often only be proven by a joint endoscopy (arthroscopy). Therapy is initially limited to conservative measures such as rest, anti-inflammatory drugs, cooling and physiotherapy.