Knee Pain Health Center

You may also have imaging tests such as X-ray, CT scan, and MRI.

How is it treated?

You can try home treatment if your knee is not swollen, dislocated, giving way, or causing you severe pain. Take a break from activities that cause knee pain, like squatting, kneeling, running, and jumping. Put ice on your knee, and use pain medicines you can buy without a prescription.

As your knee pain starts to decrease, begin stretching and strengthening your leg. Strengthening your thigh muscles can help keep the kneecap stable. Your doctor or physical therapist can help you plan an exercise program specifically for your condition. You will probably start with one or two exercises and add others over time. It is important to closely follow the instructions from your doctor or physical therapist.

Knee pain can be a slow and frustrating condition to heal. But most people with pain from patellar tracking disorder gain relief with a few months of treatment and without surgery. As a rule, the longer you have had this problem, the longer it will take to get better.

Most people can gradually return to their previous activity level if they:

• Avoid movements that make symptoms worse.
• Do specific stretches and muscle-conditioning exercises.
• Lose excess weight.
• Tape or brace the knee, in some cases.
• Learn the best way to perform a sport, and wear the right shoes or equipment.

Surgery is usually not needed for patellar tracking disorder. It is most often used when dislocation happens many times and other treatments have not worked. There are many types of surgery that can realign the kneecap and correct the tracking problem in some people. You and your doctor can decide which surgery is best for you.

How can patellar tracking disorder be prevented?

You may be able to prevent patellar tracking disorder and related knee pain. Avoid activity that overloads and overuses the knee. Stretch your legs and hips well, both before and after activity. Cycling and swimming are especially good activities. Stay at a healthy weight to reduce stress on your knee joints.

Frequently Asked Questions