In plain language
The kneecap fails to remain stable in the femoral groove and may subluxate or dislocate.
Clinical Significance & Management
Assess osteochondral injury after dislocation and anatomical contributors to recurrence.
Symptoms & Clinical Presentation
Lateral slipping, apprehension, swelling or giving way.
Etiology & Injury Mechanisms
- Twisting, collision, groove shape, patellar height or lax tissues.
Diagnostics & Imaging Guide
Examination and X-rays; MRI when ligament or osteochondral assessment is needed.
Treatment Options
Professional acute care, protection and rehabilitation; recurrent instability or loose fragments may need surgery.
Rehabilitation Milestones & Timeline
Rehabilitation depends on the diagnosis, procedure and associated injuries. Progression requires assessment of healing, symptoms and function; elapsed time or a single test cannot determine readiness for sport.
Rehabilitation progression
Restore motion, quadriceps and hip control before progressing sport-specific stability tasks.
Evidence-Based Clarifications
Spontaneous relocation does not exclude cartilage or bone injury.
Sources & References
Educational clinical definitions synthesized from AAOS, Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, and HSS. Individual diagnosis and surgery require professional medical evaluation.
Publication date
Content updated