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Warning-sign checks

Kneecap dislocation: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Seek emergency care if:

    • The kneecap is visibly out of place or the knee is badly deformed
    • You cannot move the knee after an injury
    • A bone is visible or there is a deep wound over the knee
    • The foot becomes cold, pale, blue, numb, or weak
    • The injury followed a major fall, collision, or other high-energy impact
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Get urgent assessment the same day if the kneecap appears to have moved back by itself.

    You may still need X-rays and an examination for fractures, cartilage injury, or ligament damage.

    Prompt assessment is also appropriate for rapid swelling, severe pain, inability to bear weight, or a knee that catches or locks.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange routine follow-up if the knee repeatedly gives way, the kneecap keeps partly slipping, or pain and swelling are not improving.

    These symptoms may need physiotherapy, imaging, or an orthopaedic assessment.

The article also says

Keep the knee supported in the position you find it.

Do not try to straighten it forcefully or push the kneecap back yourself.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Kneecap dislocation. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.