Patella Fracture Information

• A patella fracture is essentially a broken kneecap. It is primarily caused by direct impact to the knee. You will know you have a broken kneecap if you experience tremendous pain, swelling, and a tough time straightening the leg or walking on it. A patella fracture could consists of several breaks, or just one crack across the kneecap. In either case, immediate medical action is necessary. The knee must be placed in a cast to restrict movement so that it does not get bent and slow the kneecap's healing process, which can take anywhere from six to eight weeks.
  
  

Knee Exercises

• After the cast has been removed, the knee will need rehabilitation exercises for a few weeks to increase muscle and improve mobility. You can tell if your knee is ready for rehabilitation when the knee can be bent and straightened without soreness.
  
  Water exercises are among the best for knee rehabilitation. Water is not as hard on the joints as regular land exercises because of its buoyancy. Pool running is one of the simplest and can be done with or without buoyancy belts or vests. Simply go back and forth across the pool. Leg lifts and squats also can be done in the water.
  
  When strength has been built up in the knee muscles and the knee is healed, land exercises can be incorporated. These include cardiovascular exercises like walking, jogging, using an elliptical, or stationary bike. If you feel uncomfortable with your knee during land exercises, wear a knee brace to give added support during exercise or in everyday activities.
  
  It is important not to overdue any exercise and understand that your knee will take time to get back to its original condition. If your knee is in pain after exercising, ice the injury. If the pain persists, consult your physical therapist or doctor to make sure additional injuries were not sustained.