Symptoms of Kneecap Instability
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms, you may be dealing with patellar instability:
Knee pain or discomfort during movement
A sensation of the kneecap slipping out of place
Swelling around the knee
Tenderness along the patellar tendon
Difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected knee
Episodes of complete dislocation.
These symptoms can worsen with high-impact activities – sometimes even with everyday movements like climbing stairs or when you bend the knee, straighten in or twist and turn.
Causes and Complications of Kneecap Instability
Kneecap instability can result from a variety of factors, including:
Patellar maltracking or misalignment of the patella bone
Weakness in the thigh muscles or patellofemoral ligament
Structural abnormalities in the femoral groove or thighbone
Prior injury or trauma leading to ligament damage.
Left untreated, kneecap instability may lead to further complications such as arthritis, cartilage damage, or chronic knee pain. Early diagnosis and management from a medical professional are vital to prevent long-term issues.
Diagnosis of Kneecap Instability
Accurate diagnosis is critical to develop an effective treatment plan. At The West London Knee and Hip Clinic, Dr imbuldeniya and his team of specialists use advanced diagnostic techniques, including:
Physical examination to assess patellar tracking and ligaments
Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, to identify structural issues like patellofemoral instability or patellar dislocation.
Book Your Consultation
Don’t let kneecap instability hold you back. At The West London Knee and Hip Clinic, Dr Imbuldeniya and his multidisciplinary team specialise in diagnosing and treating patellar instability with both nonsurgical and surgical treatments. Book a consultation today to regain confidence in your knee joint and return to the activities you love.