Patellar Dislocation Treatment

The patella, or kneecap, is held in place by the ligaments and tendons in the knee joint. The kneecap moves when bending or extending the leg, but it should stay within the trochlear groove. When a blunt force or twisting causes the kneecap to shift out of place, it is called a patellar dislocation. The sports medicine experts at Jonathan Glashow, MD, Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine offer patellar dislocation treatment at our medical facility on New York City’s Upper East Side.

Sports injuries are a common cause of patellar dislocations. Planting the foot and suddenly twisting or changing direction can pop the kneecap out of place. A direct blow from another player can shift the patella. Most dislocations of the kneecap move the bone to the outside of the knee. The patella may return to the correct position on its own when the leg is extended, or it will need to be manually shifted back into the trochlear groove.

Dislocated Kneecap Surgery or Treatment

The tendons and ligaments attached to the patella can be damaged during a patellar dislocation. The patella can also be fractured or damaged during trauma to the knee. Patellar dislocation treatment depends on the extent of the damage and if it is a recurring injury. When minimal damage to the ligaments occurs, they can heal with rest, followed by rehabilitation to strengthen the knee. In more severe or recurrent patellar dislocations, surgery may be required to repair ligaments, fractures or to stabilize the kneecap.

A patellar dislocation can cause intense pain, swelling and instability in the knee. It is important to have a patellar dislocation injury examined by an orthopedic specialist to determine if there is any damage to the components of the knee. Our experts at Jonathan Glashow, MD, Orthopedic Surgery & Sports Medicine can provide diagnosis and treatment for kneecap dislocations at our facility in UES New York City. We offer same day appointments and treatments. Contact us to schedule an emergency exam if you or a family member suffers from a patellar dislocation or severe knee injury.