Patella Dislocation

A patella dislocation is when the knee cap slips out of its normal position. The knee cap often moves lateral (towards the outside of the knee), sometimes it relocates itself and other times this needs to be done by the paramedics or in A&E by a specialist trained person and is not something that should be done by an untrained person.

You may be required to wear a splint for a couple of weeks dependent on the severity of your symptoms.  It is likely you will then need to undertake a graded exercise program with support from a Physiotherapist.

When to seek advice

If you have severe pain affecting your sleep and daily activities, if you have had a serious injury or you have symptoms that have not improved with self-management, you should contact your GP practice. If you have a red, hot swollen joint please ring 111