Subluxation and dislocation of patella Save

Subluxation and Dislocation of Patella: Understanding the Difference

If you're an athlete, you may have heard of injuries such as subluxation and dislocation of the patella. Both of these injuries can cause pain and discomfort, but they are different from each other. In this article, we'll explain the difference between subluxation and dislocation of the patella.

Subluxation of Patella

Subluxation of the patella occurs when the kneecap partially dislocates from its normal position. This means that the patella moves out of its groove in the thighbone, but it doesn't completely come out of the joint. Subluxation can cause pain, swelling, and instability in the knee.

Subluxation is often caused by a sudden change in direction or a twisting motion while the foot is planted on the ground. It can also be caused by overuse or weakness in the muscles around the knee.

Dislocation of Patella

Dislocation of the patella is more severe than subluxation. It occurs when the patella completely comes out of its groove in the thighbone. This can cause intense pain, swelling, and difficulty moving the knee.

Dislocation of the patella is often caused by a direct blow to the knee or a sudden change in direction while the foot is planted on the ground. It can also be caused by a genetic predisposition or a structural abnormality in the knee.

Treatment

Treatment for subluxation and dislocation of the patella will depend on the severity of the injury. Mild cases of subluxation may only require rest, ice, and physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee. More severe cases may require immobilization with a brace or surgery to repair the ligaments in the knee.

Dislocation of the patella often requires immediate medical attention to put the kneecap back into place. After the patella is back in place, the knee may need to be immobilized with a brace or cast for several weeks. Physical therapy may also be necessary to help regain strength and stability in the knee.

1. Conclusion

Subluxation and dislocation of the patella are two different injuries that can cause pain and discomfort in the knee. Subluxation occurs when the kneecap partially dislocates from its normal position, while dislocation occurs when the patella completely comes out of its groove in the thighbone. Treatment for these injuries will depend on the severity of the injury, but rest, ice, physical therapy, and surgery may all be necessary for a full recovery.