Patellofemoral Instability

Understanding Knee Conditions and Available Treatments

Book an Appointment
Patient clenching knee after experiencing dislocation

Patellofemoral Instability (Kneecap Dislocation) Treatment in Hoover and Birmingham, Serving Central Alabama

Patellofemoral instability, also known as kneecap dislocation, is both painful and alarming. While many people might believe this condition is reserved for athletes, that is not the case. Simply taking a wrong step on uneven ground can result in a kneecap dislocation. Treatment for this injury is essential to ensure proper healing, restore stability, and prevent future dislocations, even if the kneecap initially moves back into place on its own.

Without proper care, the knee may remain unstable, leading to long-term damage, discomfort, and limited mobility. The multi-specialty orthopedic team at Southlake Orthopaedics serves patients at locations in Hoover and Birmingham-Grandview, AL, including those who are experiencing side effects of a dislocated knee. Our extensive orthopedic care includes proper diagnosis, kneecap dislocation treatment, and rehabilitation. Learn more about this injury and the expert care we provide.

Contact Us

What Is Patellofemoral Instability?

Patellofemoral instability is a condition in which the kneecap (patella) doesn’t track properly within the groove on the thigh bone (femur), making it more likely to shift or dislocate. The instability can cause the patella to move out of place through sudden movement, often during physical activity. It may be caused by changing direction abruptly, twisting the knee while the foot is planted, direct blows to the knee, and jumping and landing awkwardly. These common movements can cause the kneecap to move partially or completely out of place.

Contact Us

There are two main types of patella dislocations:

  • Acute: This describes a first-time dislocation often caused by trauma or a sudden twisting injury. Because the kneecap requires less force to dislocate than other joints, this type of injury is common, accounting for about two to three percent of all knee injuries. 

 

  • Congenital: This rare condition is present at birth or shortly after and is caused by abnormal knee development. The patella may never properly align and can be permanently dislocated without professional intervention.
Contact Us
Displaced patella diagram

Patellofemoral Instability and Dislocation Symptoms

The kneecap may partially shift and become dislocated due to slipping out of its normal position, usually to the outside of the knee. When this happens, ligaments and soft tissues around the knee may be stretched or torn. In some cases, cartilage can become damaged as well. Individuals who sustain a dislocated patella often experience the following symptoms:

  • Visible deformity: The kneecap appears out of place and is usually shifted to the outside of the knee.
  • Sudden, intense pain: Patients often feel sharp pain at the front of the knee when the injury occurs.
  • Swelling and bruising: Rapid swelling around the knee joint is common for patella dislocation and is usually followed by bruising.
  • Limited movement: Many patients have trouble bending or straightening the knee, making it difficult to perform everyday movements.
  • Instability: Patients lose confidence that their knee can support them, with many feeling like it will “give out” when putting weight on it.
  • Popping sensation: Many times, patients report feeling or hearing a pop at the time of the dislocation.

 

If a person suspects they have suffered a dislocated kneecap, they should avoid moving the leg and seek medical attention right away for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Contact Us

Diagnosing Patella Dislocation

Kneecap dislocation is usually diagnosed through a combination of evaluations, including a physical exam. A Southlake Orthopaedics physician will look for common signs indicating dislocation, such as swelling and tenderness, while also paying close attention to the position of the kneecap. They may also test the patient’s range of motion and the stability of the knee.

The doctor will also ask questions regarding the injury, including how it occurred, and whether the patient has a history of similar injuries. To confirm the diagnosis and rule out associated injuries, imaging tests are commonly performed. X-rays can help determine whether the kneecap is partially or completely out of place. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans can also be used to assess damage to ligaments, cartilage, or other soft tissues around the knee joint.

Kneecap Dislocation Treatment Options

Treatment options for patellofemoral instability and dislocation typically vary based on the severity of the injury. Reduction is a non-surgical technique in which a medical professional gently realigns the kneecap to its proper position while the knee remains straight. After that, the patient will likely be instructed to wear a brace or splint to keep the knee stable while it heals. Physical therapy and rehabilitation can help strengthen the muscles around the knee to prevent future dislocations.

If the injury is severe enough and has caused significant damage to ligaments or cartilage, or instances like this happen repeatedly, kneecap dislocation surgery may be recommended. It is performed to repair or realign structures that support the kneecap and hold it in place.

Contact Us

Our Orthopedics Team

Southlake Orthopaedics is proud to offer exceptional services from our team of board-certified, multi-specialty physicians. Our doctors are experts at every stage of orthopedic care and sports medicine, including diagnosis, non-surgical treatments, surgery, and rehabilitation. Our team of knee specialists includes:

Find Patellofemoral Instability and Dislocation Care in Alabama

Patella dislocation can happen to anyone, and proper diagnosis and treatment are crucial to recovery. Serving individuals throughout central Alabama, Southlake Orthopaedics is proud to offer patellofemoral instability and dislocation care to help patients achieve less pain, more living. To learn more about our services offered in Hoover and Birmingham-Grandview, AL, or to schedule an appointment, contact us today.

Contact Us