Brief Outline of Patella Dislocation

A dislocation of the kneecap is whereby the kneecap slides partially out of the groove in which it is designed to travel. Pain and swelling may accompany this condition. Athletes who suffer from a muscle imbalance or a structural deformity, such as a high kneecap, have a higher risk. This condition can also happen with forceful contractions, such as planting to change direction or landing from a jump.

Cause of Patella Dislocation

Strength imbalance between the outer quadriceps group and the inner quadriceps group. Impact to the side of the kneecap. Twisting of the knee.

Signs and Symptoms of Patella Dislocation

Feeling of pressure under the kneecap. Pain and swelling behind the kneecap. Pain when bending or straightening the knee.

Complications if Left Patella Dislocation Unattended

Continued dislocations can cause small fractures in the patella, cartilage tears, and stress to the tendons. Failure to treat a patella dislocation could lead to chronic dislocation injury.

Brief Outline of Knee Joint Dislocation

A knee joint dislocation is a serious injury and quite often involves damage to a number of the structures of the knee, including ligaments, tendons, and menisci. There is also a chance that damage will occur to the vascular structures around the knee, which may require emergency surgery. Dislocation occurs when the top of the tibia (shin bone) is completely dislodged from the end of the femur (thigh bone). A dislocation of the knee joint is most commonly caused by a high impact injury, such as an automobile accident or a severe fall.

Cause of Knee Joint Dislocation

High impact to the knee or leg. Forceful twisting of the knee.

Complications if left Knee Joint Dislocation unattended

Dislocation of the knee joint causes tearing of the ligaments that hold the joint together. Dislocation results in gross instability and the knee joint becoming considerably more prone to successive dislocations and other injuries.

Immediate Treatment for Knee Joint Dislocation

Ice an immobilisation. Seek medical attention immediately.

Rehabilitation and prevention for Knee Joint Dislocation

During rehabilitation, activities that do not aggravate the injury should be sought, such as swimming and cycling instead of weight-bearing activities like running and walking. Stengthening the muscles around the knee will help to provide support. A knee brace may also be used to provide extra support when initially returning to activity.

Long-term prognosis and surgery for Knee Joint Dislocation

Even if the knee joint relocates without treatment, which is rare, there will still be significant damage to the soft tissues around the joint. In most cases the knee joint will need to be relocated by a physician or medical professional, and as damage to the soft tissues is always present with a knee dislocation, further surgery may be required to fix the soft tissue damage. Extensive rehabilitation is usually required after surgery.