Knee A to Z

Corticosteroids are substances originally derived from the adrenal gland, and which function to reduce inflammation. Modern corticosteroids are commercially synthesised.

Cortisone is a steroid-based medication.

Injections of 'cortisone' may be given into the knee joint and inflamed areas of the knee to quieten inflammation.

CPM is an abbreviation for 'continuous passive motion'.

A CPM machine is a device fitted to the leg, usually after surgery, to keep the limb slowly bending and straightening. CPM stands for Continuous Passive Motion. Page updated January 2024 by Dr Sheila Strover (Clinical Editor)

Crabmeat cartilage is joint cartilage that has broken down into fibrillated white fronds that resemble crab meat.

Crepitus (in the knees) is a fine crunching noise, usually on bending the knee from standing. Page updated June 2024 by Dr Sheila Strover (Clinical Editor)

The cross trainer is a commonly-used piece of rehabilitation exercise equipment.

Abbreviation for 'complex regional pain syndrome', CRPS is a syndrome of excessive pain following injury or surgery to the knee, where the pain is accompanied by skin colour and temperature changes and problems with regaining range of motion of the limb.

The word 'cruciate' means 'crossed', and in the knee the term relates to the cruciate ligaments right in the middle of the knee. Page updated June 2024 by Dr Sheila Strover (Clinical Editor)