A little bit of anatomy helps in understanding what exactly patellar subluxation is.
The patella, or kneecap, is one of three bones that forms the knee joint.
Each of these bones has a protective layer of cartilage where their surfaces come into contact.
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The patella is also enveloped by a tendon.
This tendon connects thequadriceps muscleof the thigh to the shinbone (tibia) below the knee.
The kneecap slides up and down a groove on the end of the thigh bone as the knee bends.
This groove is called the trochlea.
The kneecap is designed to fit in the center of the trochlear groove and slide evenly within the groove.
In some people, the kneecap is pulled towards the outside of the trochlear groove.
As this happens, the kneecap does not slide centrally within its groovewe call this patellar subluxation.
Many people with symptoms of kneecap pain are diagnosed with patella subluxation or maltracking of the patella.
Causes
There are dozens of factors implicated in the cause of patellar subluxation.
The bottom line is that several factors lead to instability of the kneecap.
Typically, the pain associated with patellar subluxation is attributed to PFPS.
Other causes of kneecap pain include knee arthritis,patellar tendonitis(Jumper’s knee), andplica syndrome.
Treatment should first ensure that the patella is not dislocated.
Some research has shown that isolated quadriceps strengthening is not the critical factor in eliminating kneecap problems.
These often provide symptomatic relief but are certainly not a long-term solution.
Shoe choice:Footwear contributes tothe gait cycle.
Motion control running shoes may help control your gait while running and decrease the pressure on the kneecap.
While some patients improved, others didn’t get better with surgery.
However, there are situations where surgery may be necessary.
In these situations, choosing the right surgery is critical to finding success with treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, properly taping a kneecap can sometimes help withknee pain.
Treating patellar subluxation can require surgery, but it depends on the cause and severity.
Non-surgical treatment options include anti-inflammatory medications, several weeks of rest, and physical therapy.
Surgical treatment often comes in the form of a soft tissue procedure, such as lateral release.
This involves repairing and tightening any stretched tissue causing the subluxation.
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