Kneecap dislocation occurs when the triangle-shaped bone covering the knee (patella) moves or slides out of place. The problem usually occurs toward the outside of the leg.
See also: Dislocation
Alternative NamesDislocation - kneecap; Patellar dislocation or instability
CausesA dislocated kneecap most often occurs in women. It is usually a result of sudden direction changes while running. This puts the knee under stress.
Dislocation may also occur as a direct result of injury. When it is dislocated, the kneecap may slip sideways and around to the outside of the knee.
SymptomsThe first few times this occurs, you will feel pain and be unable to walk. However, if dislocations continue to occur and are untreated, you may feel less pain and have less immediate disability. This is not a reason to avoid treatment. Kneecap dislocation damages your knee joint.
First AidStabilize (splint) the knee with the leg fully straight (extended), and get medical attention.
Your health care provider will examine the knee, which could confirm that the kneecap is dislocated.
A knee x-rayand, sometimes, MRIs should be done to make sure that the dislocation did not cause a bone to break or cartilage to be damaged. If tests show that you have no such damage, your knee will be placed into an immobilizer or cast to prevent you from moving it for several weeks (usually about 3 weeks).
After this time, physical therapy can help build back your muscle strength and improve the knee's range of motion.
If the knee remains unstable, you may need surgery to stabilize the kneecap. This may be done using arthroscopic or open surgery.
Call immediately for emergency medical assistance ifCall your health care provider if you injure your knee and you have symptoms of dislocation.
Call your health care provider if you are being treated for a dislocated knee and you notice:
Also call if you re-injure your knee.
PreventionUse proper techniques when exercising or playing sports. Keep your knee strong and flexible.
Some cases of knee dislocation may not be preventable, especially if anatomic factors make you more likely to dislocate your knee.
Dislocation of the kneecap is most common in young girls between the ages of 10-14. I
You can usually tell by simply looking at it. For instance, if your kneecap is pointing sideways, you dislocated it, and are likely bawling your eyes out.
You have spelled it correctly, kneecap. A kneecap is the patella.
A subluxated knee occurs when the kneecap partially dislocates from its normal position in the knee joint. This can cause pain, instability, and difficulty moving the knee. Treatment may include rest, physical therapy, or in severe cases, surgery.
The kneecap is fractured or shattered. The kneecap dislocates easily and repeatedly. Degenerative arthritis of the kneecap causes extreme pain.
When the kneecap is fractured or shattered. When the kneecap dislocates easily and repeatedly. When degenerative arthritis of the kneecap causes extreme pain.
'kneecap' IS the nickname (for patella)
"Patella" is another name for the kneecap. "Patellar" means pertaining to the kneecap.
i use kneecap to my knee .
The patella is a bone (specifically, the kneecap).
Patella is another word for kneecap.
The kneecap, or patella, is bone.