When the kneecap slides out of place, it can cause it to swell.A knee dislocation is usually caused by twisting or wrenching the knee with a planted foot while dancing or gymnastics.Most kneecap dislocations are not caused by trauma to the knee.A knee dislocation can cause pain and swelling of the area and make the knee feel unstable.If you have a kneecap dislocation, your knee will be partially bent and you won't be able to fully extend it.There are a number of things that need to be considered when healing after a knee dislocation to make sure that the area heals correctly and that another dislocation won't happen in the future.
Step 1: If you think you have a knee injury, go to the emergency room.
Your injury should be assessed by a physician before it gets worse.Injuries that are caught and treated early are more likely to heal quickly.
Step 2: Don't try to get the knee back to its original position.
You shouldn't try to adjust it on your own.Only a qualified healthcare professional can do that, and you don't know if the injury is a dislocation or not.
Step 3: The knee should be evaluated for other injuries.
The knee is the most prone to injuries in the body.It contains a lot of bones and tissues.A doctor's exam will include a visual inspection of the knee, palpation and manipulation, looking for swelling and incorrect positioning.Before you leave, the doctor will need to get an x-ray to make sure you don't break anything.Approximately 10% of kneecap dislocations are related to a knee cap break.
Step 4: Prepare yourself for a reduction.
If your doctor agrees that you have a kneecap dislocation, he/she will likely perform a procedure called a reduction, which will slide your knee cap back into place.Before manipulating your knee, the doctor will probably give you pain medication.He/she will usually use an x-ray to make sure everything is in the right place.It is important to not try this at home as it is difficult to figure out which injuries need surgery or specialized treatments, and further damage can occur if this is not done correctly.
Step 5: Some dislocations may need surgery.
If you have a rare type of injury, your doctor may need to refer you to a specialist for treatment.
Step 6: Rest your leg as you please.
You should always follow your doctor's instructions, but there are some general guidelines for resting your knee and reducing swelling.
Step 7: Take over-the-counter remedies.
Motrin should be taken if your doctor says it's okay.Follow the instructions given to you by your doctor or pharmacist.If you want to treat the pain, you can take Tylenol, but it won't address swelling.If you think you need to use these medications for longer than a week, talk to your doctor.
Step 8: You should wear a knee brace.
You will likely be placed in a knee brace after your kneecap is back in place.It may take weeks for your knee to heal.The brace will provide stability to the joint, so it is important that you wear it.
Step 9: It's a priority to make follow-up appointments.
If you're no longer in pain, it's easy to skip follow-up appointments with your doctor.These appointments are necessary so that your doctor can make sure that the knee is healing properly and that there are no other injuries that were missed at your original appointment.Just a few days after the initial injury, you will have your first follow-up appointment.
Step 10: Caution should be used for several weeks after an injury.
For a few weeks after the injury, you should not put too much stress on your knee.Allow the joint to be mobile while giving it time to heal.Discuss with your doctor when to return to work.
Step 11: If it's necessary, attend physical therapy.
If you are referred to a physical therapist by your doctor, make sure you go to your therapy appointments and do any at- home exercises the therapist gives you.When your knee feels better, it's important to strengthen it and ensure a full range of motion.This can help you avoid problems down the road.
Step 12: If you are an athlete, you should consult a sports medicine physician.
Athletes who have suffered a kneecap injury should seek the advice of a board-certified sports medicine physician.It can take up to six weeks for a kneecap injury to heal.
Step 13: Glucosamine is a supplement.
There is some evidence that this supplement can help improve knee movement after an injury.
Step 14: You should wear supportive shoes.
After you have been cleared for normal activity, you should wear good quality shoes.It can help you have a regular walk and avoid putting too much pressure on your knees.