What Do You Need to Know About Patellar Subluxation?

Bysiiora

Also known as the kneecap, the patella is the bone that covers the knee joint and protects the anterior articular surface of the joint. Not only this but the patella also provides protection against impacts to the knee joint. In humans, the kneecap is the largest sesamoid bone in the body. 

Just like all other bones, the patella is also prone to injuries that could result in its fracture or dislocation. Depending on the severity of the injury, the treatment is decided. Severe cases need surgical intervention. In this post, we will be discussing one of the orthopedic conditions that affect the kneecap i.e., Patellar Subluxation. 

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What is Patellar Subluxation?

Also known as patellar instability, patellar subluxation is a condition that is characterized by the partial dislocation of the kneecap. It is a painful condition that makes it difficult for the person to walk or move. If timely treatment for the condition is not provided, severe complications may occur, and the person may experience complete dislocation. 

Patellar subluxation is also accompanied by injuries to the muscles, ligaments, and tendons that support the patella. If the injury is severe, surgery may be needed. 

 

What Are the Symptoms Associated with Patellar Subluxation?

Orthopedic conditions are always painful. Thus, people with partial dislocation of the patella will also experience intense pain, especially with movement. Some of the common signs and symptoms of patellar subluxation include:

  • Popping or crackling sound in the knee with the movement
  • Pain in the front of the knee that becomes worse with the movement or after extended sitting
  • Stiffness and swelling around the knee joint
  • Locking, catching, or buckling of the injured knee
  • Slipping of the kneecap toward the outside of the knee

 

What Causes Patellar Subluxation?

Trauma is the commonest cause of patellar subluxation, and it includes:

  • Automobile crashes
  • Collision with other players while playing
  • Contact sports injuries
  • Falling on the knees 

 

People between 10 and 20 years of age are more prone to patellar subluxations. 

 

How Patellar Subluxation is Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of patellar subluxation starts with a physical examination where the orthopedic specialist will look for the range of motion of the injured knee. For that, the healthcare service provider will ask the patient to bend and straighten the knee. After this, the front of the knee is examined by touching and gently pressing to look for any unusual signs. To confirm, imaging tests will be ordered:

  • X-ray examination
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

 

The feasible treatment will be decided based on the diagnosed report. In most cases, patellar subluxation can be managed with non-surgical methods. This includes:

  • RICE therapy i.e., Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to improve pain & swelling
  • Application of braces or casts to immobilize the knee joint
  • Use of crutches or walkers to keep weight off the knee 
  • Physical therapy to improve the strength and flexibility of the affected knee

 

When it comes to surgery, it is recommended in special cases or when repeated dislocations are experienced by the patient. Surgeries that may be performed include:

  • Medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction
  • Tibial tuberosity transfer
  • Lateral release surgery

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