Knee Dislocation 101: Symptoms, Diagnosis, & Treatment

A knee dislocation is a serious injury that occurs when the bones in your knee joint are forced out of alignment. This can cause the ligaments and tendons around your knee joint to tear or rupture. A knee dislocation is a very painful injury and can make it difficult to walk or even stand.


Learn more about knee dislocation when you continue reading.

Understanding the Symptoms of Knee Dislocation

When it comes to knee dislocation, there are a few telltale signs and symptoms that can help you know if you or someone you know has experienced this injury.

1. Pain in the Knees

One of the first and most common signs of knee dislocation is pain in the knee area. This pain can range from mild to severe, depending on the extent of the dislocation.

2. Swollen Knees

Another common symptom of knee dislocation is swelling in the affected area. The swelling may cause the knee to appear larger than normal and can make it difficult to move the leg. 
3. Unstable Knees

The knee may feel unstable or weak after a dislocation. This is due to the fact that the ligaments and tendons in the knee are no longer able to support the joint properly.

4. Severely Bruised Knees

Bruising is another common symptom of knee dislocation. This bruising can occur around the knee or on the leg. The bruising may be black and blue or a deep purple color.


5. Deformity

When a knee dislocation occurs, the knee may appear deformed. This is due to the fact that the bones in the knee are no longer aligned properly. In some cases, the knee may appear to be bent in an abnormal direction.

Diagnosing Knee Dislocation

If you suspect that you or someone you know has suffered a knee dislocation, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. A knee dislocation is a serious injury that can cause long-term problems if it is not treated properly.

The first step in diagnosing a knee dislocation is a physical examination by a doctor. The doctor will look for signs of swelling, bruising, and pain. They will also check for any looseness in the knee joint.

Imaging tests, such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans, can also be helpful in diagnosing a knee dislocation. These tests can provide images of the bones and joints to help the doctor determine if the bones are out of alignment.

Lastly, the ankle-brachial index test is a test that is sometimes used to diagnose a knee dislocation. This test measures the blood pressure in the ankle and compares it to the blood pressure in the upper arm. If the ankle-brachial index test is abnormal, it may be a sign of a blood clot in the leg. This can be a serious complication of a knee dislocation and requires immediate medical attention.

Treating Knee Dislocation

There are a few different ways to treat a knee dislocation, depending on the severity of the injury. For less severe injuries, the knee may be placed in a splint or cast to keep it from moving and allow it to heal. More severe injuries may require surgery to realign the knee joint and repair any damage to the ligaments or bones.

Final Thoughts

Dislocated knees are a serious injury that can cause immense pain and mobility problems. However, with prompt and proper treatment, most people make a full recovery from a dislocated knee and are able to return to their previous level of activity.

If you need a knee replacement revision surgery, the expert team at Atlanta Bone and Joint Specialists can help you. Our board-certified orthopedic surgeons will discuss the best treatment plan for your condition and guide you toward recovery. Book an appointment to get started today!