Print this Page
Use your browser print button to send a copy of this page to your printer.

Return to Pediatric Orthopedics page

• Recurrent dislocation of the patella is when the kneecap moves out of its proper position frequently.

• The dislocation may happen when the ligaments that lie on either side of the child’s kneecap become stretched and are not tight enough to hold the kneecap in place. The ligaments become more stretched each time the kneecap slides in and out of place.

• The dislocation mainly happens when your child bends or straightens his or her legs.

• Kneecap dislocation occurs more commonly in females. Also it is usually seen on one knee or the other (not both).

• When your child's kneecap has dislocated, he may complain of it "giving way" and there may be some swelling around the knee. At first, your child may complain of severe pain with each episode. In addition, when the kneecap pops out of place, small pieces of it can break off—this can cause problems in the knee joint.

• Initial treatment is usually a cast or a brace for 6 weeks. If the choice is a brace, the physician may ask that your child wear the brace at all times except for bathing. In addition the physician may have your child do exercises to strengthen the muscles on the upper part of the leg (quadriceps). By making these muscles stronger, they help to hold the kneecap in a better position. The exercises may include doing straight leg raises. This involves moving the leg up and down while the leg is in a straight position. Your physical therapist may have some more suggestions.

• Your physician may ask that your child stay away from any activities or sports that are known to cause the kneecap to slide out of place.

• Your physician may suggest surgery if the dislocations are extremely frequent. Some progressive arthritis can develop from a badly damaged kneecap.