Congenital Lateral Patellar Subluxation on both knees

Have Congenital Lateral Patellar Subluxation on both knees. Throughout my childhood, the patella actually popped out of the kneecap, causing severe pain and blood-curdling screaming.

EARLY 2000: In my early 20s went to doctor and physical therapist who told me how to treat the pain, i.e. exercises.

MOST OF 2000s: Relocated to rural/sub-urbs for work. Commuted by car, barely walked. If it snowed, work was closed.


THIS PAST WINTER: Job relocated me back to the city where people walk and take public transportation. We had snowstorms in the North East. I have been extremely careful walking in the snow.

Past two weeks: Every time I would walk home from work, I would get this terrible sense of dread that the kneecap of my right knee will pop out suddenly, I would fall, and give a terrifying blood-curdling scream because the pain is immeasurable. I consoled myself and counted my blessings.

LAST NIGHT: Right knee started to hurt.

THIS MORNING: Right knee hurts when I straighten it. When I tried going on stationary bike to do light biking, right knee also hurts. However when I walk, right knee hurts 25% as much.

Can this be self-treated with ice packs and massages. I am terrified of going to the doctor.

[Dr Vinod]

Hello!

Take complete bed rest for couple of days without any exertion to your right knee.

Apply ice packs and take NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and naproxen for pain relief.

If your symptoms continue then you have to go for some scans and an examination near an orthopedician for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Take care!