Patellar Instability/Dislocated Kneecap
The patella (kneecap) is usually sitting right where it needs to be, in a groove at the end of your thighbone (femur). As your knee bends and straightens, the patella slides up and down within the groove, allowing it to function properly. But what happens when the patella slides too far to one side or the other?
The kneecap then becomes unstable, and depending on the severity of the injury, could even become dislocated. This condition is known as patellar instability. If left untreated, the likelihood of permanent damage and even more pain could increase.
What is patellar instability?
Patellar instability occurs when the kneecap moves outside of the groove. It’s a common injury for children and adolescents because some may have ligaments that are looser, making their joints very flexible and more prone to knee dislocations. Some adults can even experience patellar instability as well. There are two common ways this injury occurs:
During an Accident
Also known as a traumatic event, the kneecap can slip out of place if you or your child has suffered from a hard blow or fall. The injury is more common in children who play high-contact sports, such as football. During the accident, the kneecap may slide out of place quickly and go back into place on its own immediately after it slides out. There may be a lot of pain and swelling in front of the knee after this happens, making it necessary to seek medical treatment. Midwest Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Alliance will be able to determine if the patella is completely or partially dislocated.
The Kneecap Dislocates by Itself
Also known as an atraumatic event, meaning no specific injury has taken place. When your child’s patella slides out of the groove on its own, that usually means that the groove may be too shallow or the patella is misaligned. There is a chance that dislocations can take place once in a while or very often. If the injury persists, then damage to the kneecap and the end of the thigh bone could arise.
What are the symptoms?
The symptoms associated with patellar instability vary because it solely depends on how much the patella has moved out of place and the extent of the damage done to the knee. Some of the more common symptoms include:
- Pain and swelling in the knee
- Pain when sitting
- Feeling a shift of the kneecap
- Creaking sounds upon movement of the knee
- Stiffness in the knee
How does Midwest Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Alliance address patellar instability?
Midwest Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Alliance will make the diagnosis by looking at you or your child’s medical history and then performing a physical exam. In some cases, an X-ray or MRI is obtained, depending on the severity of the dislocation. Based on the initial examination, Midwest Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Alliance can recommend non-surgical treatment, such as physical therapy or braces to immobilize the knee. In more serious cases, surgical treatment is recommended to restructure the ligaments that hold the patella in place. Our team at Southeastern Wisconsin will do everything possible to ensure the most precise diagnosis is made so that your knee can get back to its normal functions as quickly as possible.
Schedule Your Patellar Instability Consultation Today
If you or your child is experiencing knee pain or instability, contact Midwest Orthopedic and Musculoskeletal Alliance today at 414-384-6700. Our orthopedic specialists in Southeastern Wisconsin will evaluate the condition and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.