Description
The knee cap usually slips sideways to the outside of the knee. Dislocated knee caps most often occur in women. It is usually a result of sudden direction changes while running. It may also occur as a direct result of injury.
Symptoms
Knee cap (patella) is displaced to the outside of the knee, knee swelling, knee pain and tenderness, "sloppy" knee cap (able to move the knee cap excessively from right to left).
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. X-rays are done to rule out a fracture.
Tests:
X-ray
Specialists:
Orthopedic Surgery
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. X-rays are done to rule out a fracture.
Tests:
X-ray
Specialists:
Orthopedic Surgery
Treatment
Treatment includes knee immobilization for 3-4 weeks. Physical therapy is done to build up the strength of the knee joint. Unstable joints may require surgery.