Fixing a dislocated kneecap requires immediate medical attention and typically involves a procedure called reduction to relocate the kneecap. Here’s a breakdown:
Immediate Actions
- Seek Medical Attention: A dislocated kneecap necessitates urgent care at a hospital or emergency room.
The Reduction Procedure
- Pain Management: A healthcare provider will administer pain medication to ensure the patient's comfort.
- Manual Realignment: After giving pain medicine, the doctor or another health care provider will gently slide the kneecap back into place while straightening the leg. This maneuver, called a reduction, involves carefully manipulating the kneecap back into its correct position within the knee joint.
- Post-Reduction Assessment: Following the reduction, an X-ray will be taken to check for any fractures or other damage to the knee.
In summary, fixing a dislocated kneecap involves pain management and a reduction procedure performed by a healthcare professional, followed by an X-ray.
