The knee cap (patella) connects the muscles in the thigh to the shinbone. In a healthy knee, the patella rests in a groove in the thighbone and slides up and down as you bend and straighten your leg. The knee cap may be injured as a result of a fall, sports injury, motor vehicle accident, overuse, or several other factors. Patients with knee cap disorders may experience pain, stiffness, swelling and instability within the knee.
Treatment for knee cap disorders varies depending on the type and severity of the injury, but may include realigning the joint, removing damaged bone ends, and other kinds of surgical repair. The goal of treatment is to stabilize the knee and restore strength and function, while relieving pain and other symptoms. Your doctor will determine which treatment is best for you.