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Dislocated Kneecap (Dislocated Patella)

Medically reviewed by: Melanie L. Pitone, MD

What Is a Dislocated Kneecap?

A dislocated kneecap is when the bone in the front of the knee — called the kneecap or patella — slides out of place.

What Are the Signs & Symptoms of a Dislocated Kneecap?

Common symptoms of a dislocated kneecap or dislocated patella (peh-TELL-uh) include:

  • feeling like the knee buckled or “gave out” 
  • sudden, severe pain and swelling
  • a bump noticed on the outside of the knee. This is the kneecap that is out of place. 
  • the knee is held in a bent position
  • bruising around the knee

A look at how the kneecap moves from its normal position in a patellar dislocation.