What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Kneecap Tracking

What is Patellar Tracking Disorder? (Definition/Background Information)

• Patellar Tracking Disorder refers to the outward shifting of the kneecap when the leg bends or straightens
• The kneecap (or patella) is held in place by the tendons and ligaments around it. In majority of the cases, the kneecap shifts outwards, away from the leg or towards the outside of the leg; sometimes, it shifts inwards or towards the leg
• Patellar Tracking Disorder commonly occurs in individuals who are involved in sports that require repeated jumping, knee bending, and squatting. Pain in front of the knee joint is the most common symptom associated with this condition
• Patellar Tracking Disorder is treated by using measures such as avoiding the activities causing pain, putting ice on the knee, and exercises to strengthen the muscles of the leg and hip
• There are generally no complications associated with Patellar Tracking Disorder. Most cases show a 95% improvement with a prescribed exercise schedule

Who gets Patellar Tracking Disorder? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Patellar Tracking Disorder occurs more frequently in adolescents and adults
• It is also more frequent in females than males
• The condition is seen worldwide; all racial and ethnic groups may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Patellar Tracking Disorder? (Predisposing Factors)

Risk factors associated with Patellar Tracking Disorder include:

• Overuse, overloading, and misuse of the knee joint
• This condition is commonly observed in athletes and sportspersons
• Overweight and obese individuals

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Patellar Tracking Disorder? (Etiology)

Patellar Tracking Disorder is caused by combination of several factors as described below:

• Weakness of the thigh muscles
• Misalignment between the joint surfaces (since the knee joint is composed of two leg bones and one thigh bone)
• Tendons, ligaments, or muscles of the leg are either too loose or too tight
• Activities that frequently involve repeated twisting motions of the knee
• An accident or a traumatic injury to the knee

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Patellar Tracking Disorder?

The signs and symptoms associated with Patellar Tracking Disorder include:

• Knee pain
• Pain that is aggravated by activities such as squatting, jumping, kneeling, and using the stairs 
• A feeling of popping and grinding in the knee, when it is bent or straightened
• Sometimes, the knee seems to buckle under one’s own weight
• Typically, both the knees are involved
• Increased mass of one of the thigh muscles, called Vastus medialis

How is Patellar Tracking Disorder Diagnosed?

The diagnosis of Patellar Tracking Disorder may include:

• Evaluation of medical history along with a thorough physical exam
• Imaging studies, such as x-ray , CT, and MRI scan of the affected knee

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Patellar Tracking Disorder?

There are generally no long-term complications associated with Patellar Tracking Disorder. 

How is Patellar Tracking Disorder Treated?

The treatment of Patellar Tracking Disorder may involve:

• Avoiding any physical activity that aggravates the condition more, or avoiding activities that involves excess bending of the knee such as squatting
• Scheduled exercise to strengthen thigh muscle without much strain, as per physiotherapy recommendations
• Ice packs to reduce the inflammation and pain after exercise
• Pain medications
• Patellar taping, called McConnell technique, to reduce the friction on the patella (kneecap)
• Use of proper and comfortable footwear
• Rarely, arthroscopy may be needed to release the lateral attachment of the patella

How can Patellar Tracking Disorder be Prevented?

Patellar Tracking Disorder can be prevented by:

• Avoiding unusual or abnormal forces on the knee joint
• By avoiding bending of the knee for extended periods of time
• Having regular warm up (stretching) exercises before and after the main activity
• Reducing weight, in case one is obese

What is the Prognosis of Patellar Tracking Disorder? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis of Patellar Tracking Disorder is very good with physiotherapy and scheduled exercises. Rarely, this condition may require a corrective surgical intervention.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Patellar Tracking Disorder:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

https://www.dovemed.com/health-topics/orthopedc-disorders/