This is a difficult diagnosis to make but the symptoms include edema (swelling), pain and the sensation of the knee "giving way." Patients will generally report the initial injury occurred with a pivoting, twisting or cutting sports activity, such as football. An x-ray usually helps reveal lateral displacement of the knee. Treatment is aimed at improving the extensor mechanism (muscles in the thigh) so that the knee (patella) can track in better alignment.

If however, recurrent dislocation occurs, surgery may become an option. The extensor mechanism may need to be addressed through a variety of surgical procedures. The goal is to realign the patella and prevent lateral tracking problems from recurring.