Kneecap Dislocation: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is the kneecap?

The kneecap, also known as the patella, is a flat, slightly rounded triangular bone in the knee that connects to the femur, and with this bone, they form the patellofemoral joint. 

Due to its shape, this bone acts as a cover that provides protection to the joints, tendons, and ligaments around it. The anatomy of the kneecap gives it a vital role in allowing the extension and flexion of the knee. When any of these movements occur, the patella slides up or down. 

How does the kneecap dislocation occur?

Kneecap dislocation occurs when the kneecap is displaced and won’t fit back to its original position. In most cases, it happens due to a severe contusion on the knee. The knee supports most of the body weight which makes this injury frequent, especially in athletes.

Usually, a kneecap displacement may occur because of a hard impact on the knee, for example, in a fall, by hitting something too hard with the knee or making a sudden movement that implies changing the direction of the leg. However, there are other factors that can cause or make you more prone to this injury:

• Having weak quadriceps or other weak muscles in this area. One of the main roles of these muscles is to hold the patella in its place. Therefore, there are more chances of getting injured if these muscles are not strong enough.
• Having a flatfoot condition will also increase the risks of suffering this injury. Flat feet don’t allow the legs to align which can dislocate the kneecap.
• A disproportionate inclination of the femoral neck-shaft angle.

Symptoms and diagnosis 

Immediately after a kneecap dislocation, the patient loses balance and gets severe unbearable pain. When this occurs, the patient won’t be able to straighten the knee and will get a popping sensation in the injured knee. You can also observe that the patella is out of its place and gets swollen.

Treatment

To correct a knee dislocation, the doctor will manually move it back into its original position. They will also prescribe medicine to reduce the pain.

In all cases of kneecap dislocation, physiotherapy will be crucial. The duration of the rehabilitation treatment will depend on the severity of the injury and what caused it. 

In most cases, the doctor will recommend using a splint to immobilize the injured knee. Some other recommendations include applying cold to the injury and resting to reduce the inflammation.

When there are other parts of the joint that are injured, it might be necessary to undergo kneecap surgery. Surgery will also be necessary if this is a recurring injury or if there was a fracture.

Orthopedic Corner | Leon Mead MD Orthopedic Doctor | 730 Goodlette Road North, Suite 201  Naples Florida 34102 | Phone: (239) 262-1119