Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Fractured Knee Cap
What is a fractured kneecap?
The kneecap, also called the patella, is a small triangular bone that protects the front of the knee joint. A fractured kneecap occurs when this bone breaks, usually causing pain and difficulty in movement. Physiotherapy plays a vital role in recovery after such an injury.
How does a fractured kneecap happen?
A kneecap fracture most often occurs due to a direct impact to the front of the knee, such as a fall or accident. In some cases, it can also result from a sudden, powerful pull of the quadriceps muscle in the thigh, which places excessive stress on the patella.
What are the symptoms of a fractured kneecap?
A fractured kneecap usually causes sudden and severe pain at the front of the knee. The pain often becomes worse when trying to move the knee or when the thigh muscles contract. If the fracture is severe and the bone fragments have shifted, the knee may appear misshapen. Swelling generally develops within a few hours of the injury. Other common symptoms include:
- Stiffness in the knee
- Reduced range of motion
- Difficulty balancing
- Problems with walking (altered gait)
What should I do if I have a fractured kneecap?
A fractured kneecap is a medical emergency. If you suspect this type of injury, you should go straight to your nearest accident and emergency department or call an ambulance. Prompt medical assessment is essential to prevent complications and ensure proper healing.
What shouldn’t I do if I have a fractured kneecap?
Do not attempt to bend or move your knee until it has been assessed by a medical professional. Movement could cause the fractured bone pieces to shift further, increasing pain and potentially requiring surgical fixation to realign the bone.
Medical management of a fractured kneecap
Treatment for a fractured kneecap depends on several factors such as age, activity level, and overall health. If the fracture is minor and the bone fragments remain in place, the knee can often be managed with immobilisation in a cast or brace for around six to eight weeks. However, if the bone pieces have shifted, surgery may be necessary to realign and stabilise the kneecap. The exact surgical method will be decided in consultation with an orthopaedic surgeon. After surgery, the knee is usually immobilised again for a period of time to allow proper healing.
Physiotherapy treatment following a fractured kneecap
Physiotherapy plays a vital role in recovery once the fracture has healed enough to begin rehabilitation. Your orthopaedic surgeon will advise you when it is safe to start. During immobilisation, the knee joint becomes stiff and the surrounding muscles weaken, making everyday activities like climbing stairs or walking to the shops much harder. In many cases, crutches are needed when the cast or brace is first removed. Physiotherapy helps restore mobility, strength, and function through treatments such as:
- Electrotherapy for pain relief and healing support
- Structured exercise programmes to rebuild muscle strength
- Balance and stability training to improve movement control
- Hydrotherapy to allow gentle exercise with reduced strain on the knee
Could there be any long-term effects from a fractured kneecap?
Most kneecap fractures heal well with appropriate treatment. However, damage to the cartilage beneath the kneecap or surrounding structures can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis in the future. In some cases, delayed healing may occur if the broken bone ends fail to unite properly, a complication known as non-union. Regular follow-up and a structured physiotherapy programme greatly reduce the risk of long-term problems.
To arrange a physiotherapy assessment for fat pad impingement, please call Ace Physiotherapy & Sports on +65 8153 5374 or book online today.
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