Hauora a Toi Bay of Plenty
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Patellar Dislocation (no fracture)

Patellar (knee cap) Dislocation - no fracture

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What has happened?

  • You have dislocated your knee cap - this is a relatively common injury

What should I expect?

  • You should be fitted with a splint for your knee and can come out of this after 2 weeks, if you are comfortable enough - you do not need to see a doctor before doing this. You can, however, take it off in the 2 weeks for showering.
  • Your knee may be swollen and painful - resting and elevation will help but you may need simple pain relief (e.g. paracetamol and ibuprofen) as well

What should I do?

  • You can walk on your leg/knee as soon as you feel comfortable - putting weight on it will help with healing
  • You should make an appointment with a physio and they will help you through rehabilitation

What should I not do?

  • Avoid activities that will make the injury worse (e.g. contact sports). Riding a bike within the limits of your comfort is fine

Will I be followed up?

  • No, usually patients do not require further specialist interventions for this injury, especially if this is your first dislocation

What if I have concerns/questions?

  • If you have problems with the rehabilitation of you shoulder, you should see your GP or physio first - take your ACC form/number with you