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)
Dislocated Knee Cap
What is a dislocated kneecap?
The kneecap, or patella, is a small triangular bone that sits at the front of the knee joint and plays a vital role in leg movement. A dislocated kneecap occurs when the patella moves out of its normal groove and stays displaced, most often shifting to the outside of the knee. This can cause pain, swelling, and instability when trying to walk or bend the knee. Physiotherapy is highly effective in treating a dislocated kneecap by restoring alignment, improving strength, and preventing recurrence.
How does a dislocated kneecap happen?
A dislocated kneecap can happen in several ways. It may occur due to a direct impact, such as falling forcefully onto the knees, which pushes the kneecap out of position. It can also happen during sudden twisting movements, especially in sports that require rapid changes in direction, jumping, or pivoting. In some cases, underlying biomechanical factors such as weak thigh muscles or shallow kneecap grooves can make individuals more prone to patella dislocation.
What are the symptoms of a dislocated kneecap?
When the kneecap becomes dislocated, symptoms are usually immediate and obvious. The most common sign is a sudden, sharp pain at the front of the knee, often accompanied by a sensation of the knee ‘giving way’ or something ‘popping out’ of place. In many cases, the kneecap visibly shifts to the side, making the dislocation noticeable straight away. Swelling usually develops within the first couple of hours after the injury. Other symptoms may include:
- Weakness in the knee
- Stiffness
- Reduced range of motion
- Difficulty walking or abnormal gait patterns
What should I do if I have a dislocated kneecap?
If you suspect a dislocated kneecap, it is important to seek immediate medical attention at your nearest accident and emergency department. A dislocated patella will not correct itself and requires proper treatment. In the meantime, you can help manage pain and swelling by applying ice to the knee. Use crushed ice or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a damp tea towel and apply it around the knee in intervals. Avoid putting direct pressure on the kneecap or trying to push it back into place yourself.
What shouldn’t I do if I have a dislocated kneecap?
If you have dislocated your kneecap, you should never attempt to push it back into place yourself. Relocating the patella incorrectly can cause serious complications, including damage to the surrounding nerves, ligaments, cartilage, or bone. This can delay your recovery and, in some cases, lead to long-term problems. Always seek immediate medical help so the kneecap can be safely relocated by a professional.
Physiotherapy treatment for a dislocated kneecap
Once your kneecap has been relocated, your doctor may advise wearing a brace during the initial recovery phase to support the joint. Physiotherapy can usually begin soon after the injury and plays a vital role in restoring stability, strength, and mobility to the knee. Common physiotherapy treatments include:
- Exercise programmes to strengthen the quadriceps and hip muscles, helping support the kneecap
- Electrotherapy to reduce pain and swelling and promote tissue healing
- Taping techniques to improve patellar tracking and stability
- Hydrotherapy (exercise in water) to gently restore movement without placing excess stress on the knee
Your physiotherapist will design a personalised treatment plan to gradually restore function and reduce the risk of future dislocations.
Could there be any long-term effects from a dislocated kneecap?
The most common long-term complication after a dislocated kneecap is recurrent dislocations. This happens because the ligaments and soft tissues that hold the patella in place are overstretched or torn during the initial injury, leaving the joint less stable. As a result, the kneecap may be more prone to slipping out of place again.
In some cases, the cartilage on the underside of the patella may also be damaged at the time of dislocation. Cartilage damage can prolong recovery, cause ongoing pain, and increase the likelihood of developing knee osteoarthritis in later years.
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