Patellar (Kneecap) Disorder

• Patellar Malaignment (Kneecap tracking)
• Quadricep Teridon/Patellar Tendon Injuries
• Patella Injuries
• Muscle Strains
• Tendinitis

Patients with patellar malalignment often complain of pain in their knee aggravated by activities that require knee flexion. Typical daily activities that require knee flexion include stair climbing, kneeling, squatting, and rising from a low chair. Often patients complain of catching and grinding in the front of their knee. Some patients may have a feeling of their kneecap slipping out or giving way. These symptoms may be confused with a knee ligament injury. Quadricep tendon / patellar tendon injuries present with inability to actively fully extend the knee. Often patients will have a palpable defect either above or below the patella. Patients may also notice their patella is abnormally placed.

Treatment for patellar malalignment usually involves physical therapy and knee bracing. Occasionally patients require arthroscopic surgical intervention. Quadricep tendon / patellar tendon injuries usually require surgical repair, postoperative bracing and physical therapy.