A knee dislocation is a painful and sometimes serious injury that can make even simple movements difficult. If your kneecap pops out of place, it can cause swelling, instability, and an inability to bear weight on the affected leg.
At Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine, we provide expert care for knee injuries, including kneecap dislocation and other joint conditions. Contact our offices in Granville or Coshocton, Ohio, today to schedule an appointment.
A dislocated kneecap occurs when the kneecap (patella) moves out of its normal position within the knee joint. The kneecap normally sits within the trochlea groove at the end of the thigh bone. It slides up and down this groove during movement through the knee joint. Therefore, when the kneecap comes out of the groove, it is also called trochlear dysplasia.
A kneecap dislocation can be caused by trauma or a sudden twist of the leg. The severity of the injury can range from mild misalignment to complete dislocation requiring immediate medical attention.
There are two main types of patellar dislocation:
Signs of a kneecap dislocation include:
If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
Several factors can lead to a dislocated kneecap, including:
A doctor will diagnose a patellar dislocation through:
If you’ve had recurrent dislocations, your doctor may recommend additional imaging to assess structural issues.
Treatment for a kneecap dislocation depends on the severity of the injury:
First-time dislocations are usually treated with the following non-surgical treatments:
If non-surgical methods fail or if there are severe cartilage injuries, surgical treatment may be necessary:
To lower your risk of kneecap dislocation, consider these preventive measures:
Recovery from a dislocated kneecap depends on the severity of the injury and the chosen treatment:
Following a customized physical therapy program is crucial for rebuilding strength and preventing future injuries.
If you’re dealing with a dislocated kneecap, trust Orthopedic Specialists & Sports Medicine for expert treatment and care. We provide advanced care, including physical therapy, surgical treatment, and rehabilitation for knee joint injuries. Visit our office in Granville or Coshocton, Oh, today to restore your mobility and get back to doing what you love!
Medically reviewed by Alex Tancevski, MD
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A dislocated kneecap will cause severe knee pain and swelling. You may also notice a deformity in the position of the kneecap. Bending your knee and weight-bearing will also be difficult.
A kneecap can become dislocated from a direct blow to the knee or structural conditions such as patella alta or loose ligaments.
Treatment depends on the severity of the injury. Many first-time dislocations are treated with reduction, bracing, and physical therapy, while recurrent dislocations or injuries involving damaged cartilage or ligaments may require surgery.
Recovery times vary according to the severity of the injury. Mild dislocations may heal within a few weeks, whereas moderate injuries can take several months. If you need surgery, recovery may take six months or longer.
Yes. Some people experience recurrent patella dislocations. This often happens if the person has weak thigh muscles or structural abnormalities affecting the knee. Strengthening exercises, physical therapy, and, in some cases, surgery can help reduce the risk of future dislocations.
