Lateral Patellar Dislocation Treatment

The kneecap has moved towards the outside of the knee, often stretching the tissues that help centre it. A clinician checks alignment, swelling, movement and circulation, and may use imaging to look for a bone or cartilage injury. A first episode can settle with guided non-surgical care, but repeated slipping, a loose fragment or continuing knee giving way can change the plan.

Follow the advised period of activity modification and use a knee brace if prescribed. Ice and elevation may help swelling, while pain relief should match your medical history and clinician’s advice. Physiotherapy can gradually restore knee movement, strengthen the thigh and hip muscles, and improve control during walking and sport. A stabilising procedure such as MPFL reconstruction may be discussed when the kneecap repeatedly dislocates or damaged tissue needs repair.

Seek urgent assessment if the kneecap remains out of place, the foot becomes cold or numb, pain is severe after an injury, or you cannot bear weight. Arrange review for recurrent knee giving way, increasing swelling, or a new catching sensation, because these findings can signal instability or an associated injury.

Ask whether the kneecap is fully aligned, whether imaging shows cartilage or bone damage, how long bracing is needed, which exercises are suitable now, and what findings would make MPFL reconstruction reasonable.