Patellar Dislocation: Balancing Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine

Right knee patellar dislocation?

Hello, Doctor! On May 12, I had an accident while riding my motorcycle, which caused a dislocation of my right patella and a fracture of my right big toe.
The emergency doctor relocated the dislocated knee on the same day, and he mentioned that the toe fracture was not serious.
A week later, I underwent an MRI, and the doctor indicated that there was some fluid accumulation in my right knee and muscle injury (although the doctor showed us the images, I still couldn't understand them).
The doctor advised that I should not bend my knee for six weeks, but I personally feel that aside from occasional sharp pain, I do not experience any other discomfort.
It doesn't seem as severe as the doctor described.
Additionally, the doctor mentioned that I do not need to immobilize my knee while sleeping, which I find strange.
If bending my knee is to be avoided, how can I ensure that it won't bend too much while I sleep, as I cannot control my sleeping position? My parents also find the Western medical advice contradictory and are considering referring me to a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner for treatment.
A meridian therapist I know suggested using massage therapy to reduce swelling just a few days after my injury.
I believe both Western and Chinese medicine have their pros and cons and trustworthy aspects.
The six weeks of rest recommended by Western medicine is indeed causing inconvenience in my work and daily life, and I am also concerned that the massage therapy from Chinese medicine might cause further harm.
Of course, I hope to find a method for quick recovery and to prevent recurrence, but I understand that it may not be possible to have the best of both worlds.
Therefore, I would like to hear your opinion to help me make an informed decision regarding my treatment.
Thank you.

Hanako, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/05/22

Dr. Lin Qingzhong reply Traditional Chinese Medicine

1.
The hip bone is only dislocated, not dislocated in the medical sense.
It is necessary to consult an orthopedic surgeon.
In treatment, if the orthopedic specialist determines that walking or bending is not advisable, they may consider using orthopedic casts or other forms of immobilization.

2.
Whether a meridian therapist can perform massage depends on the situation.
It is important to note that many massage therapists do not have a valid license, and sometimes excessive massage can cause more harm.
It is essential to seek treatment from licensed practitioners, both Western and traditional Chinese medicine, for safety and assurance.
Best wishes.

Director of the Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, Fengyuan Hospital, Dr.
Lin Qingzhong.
Email: [email protected]

Reply Date: 2005/05/22

More Info

Patellar dislocation is a common knee injury that occurs when the kneecap (patella) slips out of its normal position, typically laterally (to the outside of the knee). This injury can be quite painful and may lead to complications such as swelling, instability, and recurrent dislocations. In your case, it seems that you have experienced a dislocation along with a fracture of your toe, which adds complexity to your recovery process.

After the initial dislocation, it is crucial to follow the medical advice provided by your healthcare professionals. The fact that your knee was successfully reduced (put back into place) is a positive step, but the presence of swelling and muscle injury indicates that your knee is still healing. The recommendation to avoid bending your knee for six weeks is likely aimed at allowing the soft tissues, ligaments, and muscles around the knee to heal properly and to prevent further injury or instability.

Regarding your concerns about sleeping positions and the difficulty of keeping your knee straight, it is indeed a challenge. Many patients find it hard to maintain a specific position while sleeping. You might consider using pillows or a knee immobilizer at night to help keep your knee in a straight position, which can provide some support and prevent unintentional bending.

As for the integration of Western and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in your treatment, both approaches have their merits. Western medicine typically focuses on the structural and physiological aspects of injuries, emphasizing rest, immobilization, and rehabilitation. The six-week recovery period is based on the healing timeline for soft tissue injuries and is designed to minimize the risk of re-injury.

On the other hand, TCM offers a holistic approach that includes acupuncture, herbal medicine, and manual therapies like Tui Na (Chinese therapeutic massage). These treatments can help alleviate pain, reduce swelling, and promote circulation, potentially aiding in the recovery process. However, it is essential to approach TCM with caution, especially in the acute phase of an injury. Manipulative therapies like Tui Na should be performed by qualified practitioners who understand the nuances of your injury to avoid exacerbating the condition.

In terms of your recovery, it is advisable to maintain open communication with both your Western medicine provider and your TCM practitioner. Discuss your concerns about the recovery timeline and any symptoms you experience. If you decide to pursue TCM treatments, ensure that they complement your current rehabilitation plan rather than replace it.
Ultimately, the goal is to achieve a balance between both medical approaches, allowing for a comprehensive treatment plan that addresses both the physical and emotional aspects of your recovery. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider will help monitor your progress and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
In summary, while the six-week rest period may seem inconvenient, it is crucial for your healing. Consider supportive measures for sleeping, and if you choose to explore TCM, do so with a qualified practitioner. Your recovery journey may require patience, but with the right approach, you can work towards a full recovery and minimize the risk of future dislocations.

Similar Q&A

Traditional Chinese Medicine Approaches for Healing Knee Fractures

Hello Doctor, I would like to explain the process of my injury. I fractured my right patella on June 23 and had a cast applied that same day. I returned for a follow-up appointment on July 12, and the doctor said my recovery was progressing well, with plans to remove the cast on ...

Dr. Hou Yuchang reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
Hello, generally, bone growth takes about 8 to 12 weeks. Currently, Western medicine does not have medications to promote bone growth. Traditional Chinese medicine is divided into different phases: 1-2 weeks for activating blood circulation and resolving blood stasis, 3-6 weeks f...

Understanding Old Knee Injuries: Impacts and Concerns

Hello, doctor! I would like to ask a question. When I was in the ninth grade (about six years ago), I had an incident where I collided with a classmate, and my knee was pressed down suddenly. At that moment, I felt a tendon in my knee suddenly shift, and after I straightened my l...

Dr. Zhou Lizhi reply Orthopedics
According to the user, it may be a patellar dislocation, often caused by tight lateral ligaments or previous injuries, leading to dislocation of the knee during certain positions or activities. Generally, the patella will spontaneously reduce after the knee is fully extended; how...

Traditional Chinese Medicine Solutions for Knee Joint Discomfort

A year ago, I visited an orthopedic specialist due to discomfort in my knee and underwent an X-ray examination. The diagnosis was cartilage wear in the knee. The physician believed that I was still young and not suitable for taking glucosamine supplements, so he only recommended ...

Dr. Yan Sumei reply Traditional Chinese Medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the treatment of cartilage wear involves differentiation and treatment based on the patient's specific condition, which includes observing, listening, questioning, and pulse diagnosis. The prescription is tailored according to the patie...

Understanding Patellar Dislocation: Recovery, Prevention, and Support Gear

On November 7th, I injured my left knee by colliding with a chair, resulting in a patellar dislocation. That same day, the school promptly took me to Cheng Hsin General Hospital, where the dislocated bone was manually reduced. The next day (November 8th), I visited an orthopedic ...

Dr. Li Wenhong reply Orthopedics
Hello: Removing the cast early and starting to move is to prevent knee joint fibrosis and stiffness. For more details, please consult the attending physician. Generally, after an acute injury, immobilization is required for 2 to 3 weeks, but if there is no obvious instability, ac...