A kneecap that slipped back into place still needs a checkup

Notes from an orthopedic knee specialist and a physical therapist

For survivors and families3 min read

Leg and foot injuriesKneecap dislocationDislocationsKnee injuriesPhysical therapy

A direct hit or a sudden twist can force your kneecap out of the groove it rides in. It may pop back in before you even get to the hospital. Pain and swelling can linger, since the tissue that holds the kneecap in place got stretched or torn. Sometimes a bit of cartilage or bone gets hurt too. So even if the kneecap looks normal again, it still needs an exam. [1, 2]

A slipped kneecap is a different injury from a dislocation of the whole knee joint. The second kind can put blood flow to the leg at risk. [1, 2]

Tell your doctor what moved

Say whether you saw the kneecap sitting off to one side or felt it shift and slide back. Describe whether the knee buckles, locks or won’t straighten all the way. An exam and imaging can look for related damage to bone or cartilage. Ask what the images show. Find out if you need more imaging because of a loose piece or symptoms that won’t go away. [1, 2]

Map out your rehab plan

A brace or crutches may help at first. How long you use them depends on your injury and the routine your local hospital follows. So go by the instructions you were given. Physical therapy helps bring back motion, thigh strength and control of the kneecap. [1, 2]

Don’t go back to running or sports just because the swelling has gone down. Ask which motion and strength goals come first. Find out what to do if the kneecap feels unstable again. [1, 2]

Changes that need attention

Get urgent care if the whole knee looks misshapen, the foot turns cold or pale or new numbness shows up. Call your treating team if the kneecap slips again or the joint locks. Do the same if swelling and pain aren’t getting better. [1, 2]

Questions about your knee

  1. Did my kneecap dislocate, or did the whole knee joint?
  2. Is there a loose piece of bone or cartilage?
  3. What are my milestones for the brace, walking and therapy?

Keep your knee papers in one spot

Store your brace instructions and your therapy appointment details together in one place. [1]

Sources and further reading

  1. 1Cambridge University Hospitals NHS, kneecap dislocation
  2. 2NHS, dislocated kneecap

General education from orthopedics and physical therapy. A dislocated kneecap is a separate injury from a dislocated knee joint. Follow the brace and activity directions your own care team gave you.

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