Patellar Tracking Disorder: Causes, Symptoms & Treatments

Overview

• Patellar tracking disorder occurs when the kneecap (patella) moves out of its trochlear groove during motion.
• Commonly affects the sideways tracking of the kneecap.
• Often seen in athletes and more common in women.

Anatomy & Function

• Patella: Known as the kneecap, it is a bone that provides a mechanical advantage in knee movement.
• Trochlear groove: A groove at the end of the thigh bone where the kneecap should glide smoothly.

Symptoms

• Pain and swelling in the knee, especially during activities like squatting, jumping, kneeling, running, or walking downstairs.
• Popping, grinding, slipping, or catching sensations in the knee.
• Feeling of knee buckling.
• Severe cases: Kneecap dislocation.

Causes

• High stress on the knee, particularly twisting motions.
• Possible contributing factors:
  • Weak thigh muscles (quadriceps).
  • Imbalance between hamstrings and quadriceps strength.
  • Tight or loose tendons, muscles, and ligaments.
  • Overweight.
  • Knock-knees (valgus) or flat/high-arched feet.
  • Structural issues in knees or leg alignment.

Diagnosis

• Physical examination: Doctor may observe knee movement, walk, squat, and rise from sitting.
• Imaging: X-rays or MRI may be ordered.
• Q-angle measurement: Angle between femur and tibia.

Treatments

• Home Remedies:

  • Rest, reduced activity.
  • Stretching and strengthening exercises.
  • Knee braces, taping.
  • Proper footwear, weight management.
  • RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation).

• Physical Therapy:

  • Strengthening exercises for quadriceps, especially VMO (vastus medialis obliquus).
  • Focus on stretching and flexibility.

• Surgery:

  • Rarely needed, but may include cutting the lateral retinaculum or repairing the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL).
  • Arthroscopic methods may be used.

Prevention

• Stretch before and after exercises.
• Maintain muscle strength around knees, thighs, and hips.
• Keep a healthy weight.

Key Takeaways

• Patellar tracking disorder can be managed with home remedies and physical therapy.
• Surgery is considered a last resort.
• Consult healthcare professionals for diagnosis and tailored treatment plans.