History and Clinical Examination of Patellofemoral Instability

Abstract

This chapter discusses taking the key questions in taking the history from a patient presenting with patellofemoral instability and also the key points in the clinical examination. The typical patient characteristics are discussed. There are three main types that present with an acute dislocation: patients with dysplasia, normal anatomy, and normal anatomy with hyperlaxity. In patients with recurrent injury, these can be further divided into those that are sports and exercise active and those who are not. The importance of the history in defining the diagnosis, considering alternative or important diagnoses, and in indicating the appropriate management is stressed. The clinical examination then focuses on the questions posed from the history and the conclusions drawn. The key points of the clinical examination for each patient type are then discussed. Following this the clinician should know the findings of any investigation, the latter being to confirm the clinical diagnosis and to consider its management, especially if operative intervention is considered.