Kneecap instability: when to get help

1. 1

   Is any of this happening now?

   Call 911

   Seek emergency care if:

   • The kneecap remains out of place or the knee looks badly deformed
   • The foot becomes cold, pale, blue, numb or unusually weak
   • There is an open wound over the injured joint
   • A major injury leaves you unable to move the leg
   Other emergency signs, for anyone

   • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
   • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
   • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
   • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
   • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
   • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
   • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
   • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
2. 2

   Is any of this happening?

   Be seen today

   Get prompt medical assessment after a suspected dislocation, even if the kneecap moved back by itself.

   An examination and imaging may be needed to check for a fracture or cartilage injury.

   Persistent locking or recurrent large swelling should be assessed sooner because they can indicate a loose fragment inside the joint.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these
3. 3

   Does any of this apply?

   Book an appointment

   Arrange routine follow-up if you have repeated slipping, ongoing front-of-knee pain, difficulty returning to normal activities, or a sense that the knee may give way.

   Yes, one of theseNo, none of these

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Kneecap instability. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.