It is common for the kneecap to become dislocated. This happens when the patella moves out of place at the end of the humerus. It is located outside the groove of your knee joint. A knee cap can become dislocated due to trauma or sudden jerks to the knee.

Symptoms of Kneecap Dislocation

Unbearable pain and deformity of the knee joint cap is the first sign of a dislocated kneecap. The knee joint dislocation always occurs in the outside direction, and not the inside. After a knee injury, swelling and discoloration can be observed. If the injury isn’t treated quickly, bruising may also be visible.

A kneecap dislocation can be characterized by:

• Disbalance gait
• Inability to properly balance the body
• The knees make painful popping sounds
• Inability to straighten neck or knee
• Pain bruising, swelling and discoloration of the knee joints

A knee dislocation and a knee displacement should not be combined. In a knee dislocation, the thigh bone is bent in the wrong direction. While in a kneecap dislocation, the kneecap comes out of its groove. If your knee is unstable, it can cause complete dislocation of your kneecap. This may lead to subluxation sensations.

What can physical therapy do?

After your kneecap dislocation you should take a break, rest, elevate the area and compress the area to reduce swelling. These steps will help you deal with your injury. A physical therapist will brace your leg and strengthen your muscles, tendons, and ligaments to prevent a dislocation of your kneecap. You will also be taught a variety of exercises that increase your knee joint’s flexibility and range of motion. You should always attend your session on time and follow all instructions. If the kneecap dislocation happens repeatedly, surgical treatment is the only option. Make sure you strengthen your ligaments and muscles with physical therapy. The second procedure can be very painful and will keep you immobilized for up to 6 weeks.