What is the difference between a dislocated knee and a dislocated knee cap?
What is the difference between a dislocated knee and a dislocated knee cap?
A dislocated kneecap is not to be confused with a dislocated knee. A dislocated kneecap only involves misplacement of the patella, the flat bone that comprises the actual kneecap. A dislocated knee, however, occurs when the entire alignment of the large thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia) is moved out of place.
How long does it take to recover from a patella dislocation?
A dislocated kneecap is a common injury that normally takes about 6 weeks to heal. It’s often caused by a blow or a sudden change in direction when the leg is planted on the ground, such as during sports or dancing. The kneecap (patella) normally sits over the front of the knee.
What is a dislocated patella?
A patella dislocation occurs when the knee cap pops sideways out of its vertical groove at the knee joint. It’s usually caused by force, from a collision, a fall or a bad step. A dislocated patella is painful and will prevent you from walking, but it’s easy to correct and sometimes corrects itself.
How do you fix a dislocated patella?
Early treatment includes:
- Physical Therapy with an emphasis on strengthening the quadriceps (the muscles of the thigh)
- Bracing and taping – Special knee braces are designed to control how the kneecap moves.
- Surgery – Some patients may need surgery, especially if they have a lot of pain or repeated dislocations.
What causes knee cap to dislocate?
A dislocated kneecap can be caused by: A blow to the knee, for example if the knee joint collides with another person or object with great force. A sudden change of direction while the leg is still planted firmly on the ground, such as during sports or dancing. Weak leg muscles which puts pressure on the knee joint.
When can I bend my knee after patella dislocation?
After a dislocation, the knee is immobilized for four to six weeks. After a subluxation, motion is resumed when the pain decreases enough to make it tolerable. Generally, most people can begin range of motion and strengthening exercises within a week after a subluxation.
How painful is a dislocated kneecap?
Kneecap dislocation may cause sharp pain on the front of the knee when an individual tries to stand or put pressure on the knee joint. Over time, the pain in the kneecap will dull, but this is not necessarily indicative of healing. Localized tenderness. The kneecap will usually be painful to touch.
What causes the patella to dislocate?
Do you need surgery for a dislocated patella?
Conservative treatment is typically used if it’s the first time you have dislocated your kneecap. If it happens a second time or if it keeps happening, surgery is usually considered.
What is the treatment for a dislocated patella?
Conservative management of these problems in season with appropriate rest, appropriate hip and thigh muscle strengthening, and perhaps the use of a patellar buttress brace is appropriate. Alternative treatments can include glucosamine, hyaluronic acid, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs).
