Knee Dislocation Physiotherapy is a highly effective way of helping patients recover from knee injuries. The key objective is to reduce pain and swelling, improve joint function, and return to normal daily activities. Physical therapists are trained to help their patients achieve these goals through an assessment and a specific exercise program tailored to their needs.

The patella (kneecap) rests in the patellofemoral groove, an articular cartilage-lined hollow at the end of the thigh bone (femur) where it meets the shin bone (tibia). Injury to the patella is common and often causes pain and dysfunction in the knee. It can occur due to trauma, such as a non-contact twisting injury or a direct blow to the kneecap that knocks it out of its place.

It can also result from an underlying condition that can cause instability. One of these conditions is trochlear dysplasia, where the trochlear groove has completely flattened, and there is nothing to hold the kneecap in place.

This can lead to instability of the patella, which can dislocate the kneecap out of its original position when the knee is moved in certain ways, such as straightening it. Symptoms include anterior knee pain that is usually felt immediately after the injury. The pain is most intense during the initial hours after the injury. It can be accompanied by a feeling that something is “giving way” or popping out of the kneecap, swelling, and a deformity of the affected knee as it moves to the side.

During treatment, the therapist will reduce swelling and pain by using various techniques such as compression, ice, elevation, and lymphatic drainage massage. The therapist will also educate the patient about their condition and how to keep the knee as pain-free as possible.

A physiotherapist will prescribe an exercise program that will focus on strengthening the muscles and other structures around the knee. They will also work to restore proprioception and neuromuscular control in order to safely return to normal activities, including sports.

For people with a recurrent dislocation, the therapist will prescribe more challenging exercises such as isometric quadricep sets, leg dips, and other exercises that target muscles across the knee joint. This will build on the strengthening and range of motion that was done in the previous rehabilitation sessions.

The therapist will also help the patient to modify the environment that may be causing the symptoms. This can include the type and amount of exercise they do, their shoes, and other factors that may be triggering the symptoms.

If a recurrent dislocation occurs, the therapist will assess the individual and determine if the condition is due to an underlying problem requiring further medical intervention. This can be a fracture of the patella, an injury to another area of the knee, or a condition such as arthritis or osteoporosis.

Knee Dislocation Physiotherapy should be considered for all individuals who have experienced a first patella dislocation, even if the knee is not painful or showing any signs of damage on an X-ray. Those who have suffered more than one dislocation should get an orthopedic opinion and receive surgery if necessary.