What to expect from physiotherapy for patellar dislocation

After a patellar dislocation, the knee may be swollen, guarded, or difficult to bend. Your therapist may assess swelling, range of motion, walking, quadriceps activation, hip strength, balance, and the way the kneecap tracks during movement. The programme depends on whether the kneecap was put back in place, whether tissue was injured, and whether a brace or operation is part of your plan.

Early treatment often protects the knee while maintaining safe movement. Later work targets strength and control so the leg can manage stairs, squatting, turning, and sport-specific demands.

Use the brace, crutches, and range-of-motion limits as instructed. Exercises may include thigh tightening, straight-leg raises, hip strengthening, balance drills, and gradually harder closed-chain movements. Move with steady control and avoid sudden pivots until your clinician says they are suitable. Record swelling, instability, and activities that trigger apprehension; this helps your therapist adjust the next stage.

Contact your treating team if the kneecap seems to shift again, the knee locks, swelling suddenly increases, or you cannot follow the prescribed weight-bearing plan. Urgent assessment is needed for a visibly deformed knee, severe pain after a new injury, a cold or numb foot, or fever with a hot swollen joint. Repeated giving way deserves review even if the pain is manageable.

How long should I use my brace? Which movements should I avoid now? What signs show that my kneecap is stable enough for running, jumping, or contact sport?