Dislocated kneecap (luxating patella)

This is often caused by a direct blow to the side of the knee. If the kneecap immediately snaps back into place, the pain will soon subside.

Sometimes this does not happen automatically and a care provider needs to do it. Straightening the leg causes the kneecap to return to its place. Afterwards, the knee swells up, which can be painful. Ice and painkillers can provide pain relief in those cases. Sometimes, plaster cast immobilisation is needed to control the pain.

After most of the pain has subsided, it is helpful to have physiotherapy to train the muscles around the kneecap.

Please contact your treating doctor for more information.