Acute Patella Injury

What is an Acute Patella Injury?

The patella is the knee cap. An acute injury to the knee cap is an injury that happens due to a specific incident, such as a fall, or an impact, directly to the front of the knee. Injuries include a fracture of the patella, patella dislocation or damage to the cartilage which lines the back of the patella (chondromalacia patellae). If a fracture is suspected then an X-ray should be sought as soon as possible.

Treatment

• RICE principle - rest; ice; compression; elevation.
• Seek medical attention.
• For minor injuries, conservative treatment including rest, ice and anti-inflammatories may be recommended.

Treatment of a fractured patella depends on the extent of the fracture. For partial fractures the knee is often put in a splint for 6 weeks so that it can heal. Full fractures are usually treated surgically.

Recommended Products:

• Cold therapy - Ice packs and wraps can be used to ease pain and reduce inflammation.
• Knee supports - A knee support may be worn to provide support and heat retention.

Please see the Virtual Sports Injury Clinic for more information on how to treat an Acute Patella Injury and many other knee injuries.