Kneecap Stability Exercises (Patellar Dislocation)

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Patellofemoral joint or kneecap dislocations are fairly uncommon and only occur in 2-3% of the population. When a dislocation does occur, it is typically associated with trauma or a situation where the foot is planted and a sudden change of direction is occurring.

In the majority of cases, the medial patellofemoral ligament is disrupted, which allows the patella to shift laterally from its normal resting position between the femoral condyles.

Research suggests that first time dislocations should be managed conservatively. However, redislocation rates following conservative care range from 15-44%. in cases where the cartilage or underlying bone is injured or recurrent dislocations are noted, surgical intervention is often warranted.

In terms of conservative management, the knee is initially immobilized for six weeks with a cast or range of motion brace. Following this period of immobilization, exercises designed to restore range of motion, improve motor control and increase quad, hamstring and hip strength are initiated.

Reference: Smith TO, et al. Operative Versus Non-Operative Management of Patellar Dislocation. A Meta-Analysis. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc. 2011.

00:00 Introduction
00:28 What causes patellar instability?
01:29 Exercise 1: Quad Isometric
03:14 Exercise 2: Short Arc Quad Extension
04:40 Exercise 3: Standing Abduction
06:37 Exercise 4: Clock Reaches
08:21 My Self-Guided Rehab Book