Knee Dislocation

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.

What is a Dislocated Kneecap (Patella Dislocation)?

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.

Types of Patella Dislocation

There are two main types of patellar dislocation:

Traumatic Dislocation – This occurs due to a direct blow or sudden twist, often during sports or accidents.
Chronic or Recurrent Dislocations – Some people, particularly those with patella alta (a high-riding patella), experience repeated dislocations due to structural abnormalities or weak thigh muscles.

How Can You Tell If Your Kneecap Is Dislocated?

Signs of a kneecap dislocation include:

Visible displacement or an unusual bump on the side of the knee
Severe pain and swelling in the knee joint
Difficulty straightening or bending the affected leg
There is a sensation that the kneecap pops out of place when moving
Inability to put weight on the lower leg

If you experience these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

What Causes Kneecap Dislocation?

Several factors can lead to a dislocated kneecap, including:

Direct impact – A fall or blow to the knee can force the kneecap patella out of alignment.
Sudden twisting motions – Sports activities that involve quick changes in direction can increase the risk.
Weak or imbalanced thigh muscles – Weakness in the thigh muscles can make the knee joint unstable.
Structural abnormalities – Conditions like patella alta or loose ligaments can increase susceptibility.

How is a Patella Dislocation Diagnosed?

A doctor will diagnose a patellar dislocation through:

Physical examination – Checking for knee instability, swelling, and tenderness.
X-rays – Identifying the position of the dislocated kneecap and any fractures.
MRI scans – Evaluating potential cartilage injuries or ligament damage.

If you’ve had recurrent dislocations, your doctor may recommend additional imaging to assess structural issues.

How is a Patella Dislocation Treated?

Treatment for a kneecap dislocation depends on the severity of the injury:

Non-Surgical Treatment

First-time dislocations are usually treated with the following non-surgical treatments:

Reduction – A doctor will manually move the kneecap patella back into place.
Immobilization – A brace or splint keeps the knee joint stable while healing.
Physical therapy – Strengthening the thigh muscles and improving flexibility can prevent recurrent dislocations.

Surgical Treatment

If non-surgical methods fail or if there are severe cartilage injuries, surgical treatment may be necessary:

Reconstructive surgery – Repairs damaged ligaments and stabilizes the knee joint.
Cartilage repair – Addresses injuries caused by the dislocated kneecap.
Realignment surgery – Corrects bone positioning, especially in cases of patella alta.

How Can I Prevent a Patella Dislocation?

To lower your risk of kneecap dislocation, consider these preventive measures:

Strengthen thigh muscles with targeted exercises.
Wear supportive braces if you have a history of recurrent dislocations.
Avoid sudden twisting motions or high-impact activities that stress the knee joint.
Maintain flexibility and proper leg alignment through physical therapy.

Recovery After a Kneecap Dislocation

Recovery from a dislocated kneecap depends on the severity of the injury and the chosen treatment:

Mild cases – Typically heal in a few weeks with rest and physical therapy.
Moderate cases – May require a brace and therapy for several months.
Surgical cases – Recovery after reconstructive surgery can take six months or longer.

Following a customized physical therapy program is crucial for rebuilding strength and preventing future injuries.

Get Expert Knee Care Today

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