Patellar (kneecap) instability
Patellar instability
In this condition the patella doesn't rest in the groove at the lower end of the thighbone (femur) where it should
About
Need to know
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Symptoms of patellar (kneecap) instability icon plus
Symptoms may include:
- Intense pain across the front and side of your knee and a sensation of something ‘giving way’ or ‘popping out’
- A visible deformity of the knee owing to the patella moving out of position. This is usually to the lateral side of the knee
- There may be a rapid onset of swelling within the first couple of hours after injury
- You may have recurrent episodes of dislocation in which the patella moves out of position more easily and can go back into its original position with certain knee movements, usually on straightening the knee
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Diagnosis icon plus
Your consultant will perform a physical assessment of your knee to diagnose patellar instability. Further investigation generally involves MRI or CT scanning to evaluate the medial patello-femoral ligament and obtain a detailed understanding of the anatomy and degree of articular cartilage damage sustained. -
Potential treatment options icon plus
Treatment depends on the severity of your condition and the impact it has on your day-to-day life. It may include:
- Physiotherapy rehabilitation
- Activity modification
- The use of knee supports
- Surgery
Our consultants
Our facilities
From complex surgery to straightforward procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital Knee Unit
Platinum Medical Centre
15 – 17 Lodge Road
NW8 7JA
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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HCA UK City of London - 31 Old Broad Street
London
EC2N 1HT
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Chelsea Outpatients
272 & 280 Kings Road
London SW3 5AW
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Institute of Sport Exercise and Health (ISEH)
170 Tottenham Court Road
London
W1T 7HA
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344