A kneecap, or patellar, dislocation occurs when the kneecap moves out of position, usually toward the outside of the calf and swells. This dislocation usually appears as a result of twisting or bending the knee when the foot is firmly planted when dancing or doing exercise. Most knee dislocations do not result from direct trauma. Knee dislocation results in pain and swelling in the area, and may cause a feeling of instability. The knee will usually also be slightly bent and you can't really straighten it. There are several things that must be considered when healing a dislocation so that the knee area is completely healed and does not dislocate again in the future.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Diagnosing an Injury to the Kneecap
Step 1. Visit the emergency room if you think your kneecap is dislocated
The injury should be checked by a doctor before it gets worse. Injuries that are detected and treated early are more likely to heal quickly and require less medical intervention.
Step 2. Do not attempt to return the knee to its original position
Never try to push the knee back into place. Only a healthcare professional should do this, and he can only do it in the case of an actual dislocation; You probably won't even know if the knee is actually dislocated or not.
Step 3. Check for other injuries to the knee
The knee is the most injury-prone joint in the entire human body. The knee contains a lot of connective tissue as well as bones that must work in sync to function properly.
- The doctor's examination will include visual inspection, palpation and manipulation, as well as detection of swelling and improper joint position or movement.
- Your doctor will likely order an X-ray before you leave the office, to make sure nothing is broken or cracked. Typically, 10% of knee dislocations are associated with a fracture of the shell.
Method 2 of 3: Treating a Dislocated Kneecap
Step 1. Prepare for the reduction process
If your doctor agrees that your shell is dislocated, he or she will likely perform a procedure called reduction to return it to the correct position.
- The doctor will also administer pain medication before manipulating the knee to minimize discomfort. Usually, he will follow up the procedure with an x-ray to make sure everything is going well.
- Again, you should never try this yourself at home as determining the injury that needs surgery and special treatment is difficult. Further damage can occur if you don't do it properly.
Step 2. Be aware that some types of dislocation may require surgery
If your type of dislocation is rare or you have additional injuries, your doctor may recommend orthopedic surgery (an orthopedic surgeon) to determine if you need surgery.
Method 3 of 3: Healing Correctly
Step 1. Rest the calf as directed
Follow the doctor's instructions. Here are some general guidelines for resting your knee and reducing swelling:
- Knee block
- Use an ice pack or cold compress for 10-15 minutes
- Repeat four times a day for a few days after the injury occurs
Step 2. Take over-the-counter painkillers
If your doctor allows, take Motrin (ibuprofen) to reduce pain and swelling. Follow the dosing prescribed by your doctor or pharmacist.
- You can also take Tylenol (acetaminophen), but it won't reduce the swelling, only the pain.
- Talk to your doctor if you think you need to continue these medications for more than a week.
Step 3. Wear a knee brace
Once the shell is back in place, you may be given wires to prevent the shell from dislocating again. The connective tissues in your knee may take weeks to heal enough to provide stability to your kneecap.
While you're waiting, you'll need to wear these wires to keep your knee joint stable
Step 4. Prioritize follow-up appointments
Skipping or rescheduling a follow-up may be easy once you are no longer in pain. However, these appointments are important so that your doctor can make sure your knee is healing properly and that no additional injuries were missed at the initial examination.
The first follow-up appointment is usually only a few days after the initial injury
Step 5. Be careful for a few weeks after the injury
You should try to reduce the pressure or stress on your knees for a few weeks. Keep the joint flexible while it heals. Talk to your doctor to find out when it's time to return to work and do other activities.
Step 6. Take physical therapy sessions if needed
If your doctor refers you to a physical therapist after your knee has started to heal, make sure you follow your appointments and do all the home exercises the therapist teaches you.
Even when the knee starts to feel better, you need to strengthen it properly to avoid future injury and ensure full movement. This way, you will also avoid further complications
Step 7. Consult a sports doctor if you are an athlete
Athletes who have experienced kneecap injuries should consult a sports doctor for specific recommendations about returning to training.
Often, a kneecap injury takes four to six weeks before you can return to sports
Step 8. Take a glucosamine supplement
Many studies are conflicting about this supplement, but actually glucosamine has been shown to improve knee movement after injury.
Step 9. Wear the right shoes
While healing and a few weeks after you are allowed to resume normal activities, wear good quality shoes. This way, you will get used to walking or running as usual and will be able to avoid putting too much stress on your knees.
Tips
- If a knee dislocation becomes chronic, you may need surgery to treat it. The tendons in the knee may be strengthened to keep the knee in position.
- Consult your doctor before taking any supplements such as glucosamine, which can cause drug interactions.
- Take a break and relax for a few weeks. Knees need time to heal properly.
- Be aware that after a knee has been dislocated once, the chances of it getting injured again are higher in the future.
