What is it
A Patellar (Kneecap) subluxation is a temporary, partial displacement of the kneecap from the groove at the end of the thighbone, usually toward the outer side during forced straightening. Alignment factors and imbalance between the inner and outer thigh muscles can contribute. Symptoms include a slipping sensation, swelling, pain behind the kneecap, and pain with bending or straightening.
Rehabilitation goals
- Settle pain and swelling and protect the kneecap with a prescribed brace if needed.
- Restore comfortable motion and confidence in the knee.
- Strengthen the inner quadriceps and hip muscles to improve kneecap control.
- Regain balance and sport-specific control without recurrent slipping.
Exercise progression in 3 phases
Early phase
- Use ice and elevation for early swelling and change to a low-impact activity that does not worsen symptoms.
- Begin gentle hamstring and calf stretches, quadriceps isometrics, and pain-free knee motion.
Intermediate phase
- Progress to straight-leg raises, controlled squats or step-ups, and hip and inner-quadriceps strengthening.
- Add single-leg balance while maintaining the kneecap in a controlled track.
Late phase
- Advance to jogging, running, cutting, jumping, and figure-eight drills in stages.
- Return only when full motion and strength are restored, swelling is absent, and sport movements do not cause pain or instability.
Patellar instability rehabilitation exercices
This page is educational and general in nature and does not replace an individualized evaluation — see our medical disclaimer.