Dislocated kneecap
Overview
Get medical help if you think you've dislocated your kneecap. While waiting, keep the knee still and do not try to put the kneecap back in place.
A dislocated kneecap usually goes back into place by itself, but a doctor may need to move it back. Surgery may sometimes be needed.
It can take 6 to 8 weeks to fully recover from a dislocated kneecap, but you should be able to start walking again within a few days.
Page last reviewed: 25/01/2023
Next review due: 25/01/2026