What happens if patellar dislocation is not treated?

A dislocation can stretch the tissues that guide the kneecap and may damage cartilage or bone. Without rehabilitation, thigh-muscle control may remain poor, making the knee feel unreliable during turning, stairs or sport. Ongoing swelling can restrict movement, and fear of another episode may lead to less activity.

A visible deformity after injury, severe kneecap pain or knee giving way needs assessment. Even if the kneecap has moved back into place, an examination can identify injuries that are not obvious from appearance alone.

Do not force the kneecap back or continue sport. Support the leg, limit weight-bearing if painful, and arrange prompt medical assessment. Treatment may include knee bracing, physiotherapy and a staged return to activity. Repeated instability or associated cartilage damage may lead to discussion of MPFL reconstruction, but the decision depends on examination and imaging.

Seek urgent care if the kneecap is still out of position, the knee looks deformed, you cannot bear weight, pain is severe, or the foot becomes numb, cold or unusually pale. Rapid swelling after injury also warrants prompt evaluation.

Ask whether cartilage or stabilising tissues were injured, how long to use support, which exercises restore control, and what would make surgery worth considering.