Charlotte, NC
A 16-year-old female asked:
I dislocated my knee cap but when i fell it instantly went back into place. how long will i have to use the knee brace and crutches?
2 doctor answers • 2 doctors weighed in
A Verified Doctoranswered
Endocrinology 52 years experience
Dislocated knee cap: The time to control your knee cap is tough but at your age you will no doubt be told what you should or should not do for a few weeks.
Annoying but necessary - you will get over this and your friends will be very happy.
Wish you well!
929 viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Dr. Edward Hellmananswered
Orthopedic Surgery 30 years experience
4-6 weeks: Ideally, you would go 4-6 weeks before you fully flex your knee again. When you dislocate your knee, you tear some of the medial structures that hold it in place and they must heal to prevent persistent instability. Knee flexion puts a stress on the knee cap that forces it laterally and can cause these medial structures not to heal correctly.
671 viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Nov 22, 2018
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $39!
50% off with $15/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.