Dislocated kneecap
Overview
A dislocated kneecap is where your kneecap (patella) moves out of place. It is usually caused by an injury to the knee. Get medical advice as soon as possible if you think you have a dislocated kneecap.
Treatment
A dislocated kneecap often moves back into place by itself. Even if it does, you will still need to get it checked by a doctor. You will usually needX-raysor anMRI scan. If your kneecap does not go back into place by itself, a doctor may have to move it back. You will be given alocal anaestheticand may be offered a sedative so you do not feel any pain. Surgery may be needed if you have badly damaged your knee. Some people may also need surgery to stop the knee from dislocating again. After treatment, you'll need to go to follow-up appointments to check your knee is healing properly.
When to see a doctor
If you think you have dislocated your kneecap, there are some things you can do while waiting for treatment: keep the knee still keep the knee still keep the knee supported with padding while sitting or lying down – you can use rolled up clothing, towels or cushions keep the knee supported with padding while sitting or lying down – you can use rolled up clothing, towels or cushions do not raise the affected knee do not raise the affected knee do not try to stand or walk on the affected leg do not try to stand or walk on the affected leg do not try to put the kneecap back into place yourself do not try to put the kneecap back into place yourself