Patellar malalignment: Difference between revisions

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== Definition / description  ==
== Definition / description  ==


Patellar malalignment is a translational or rotational deviation of the patella to any axis, associated with several soft-tissue and osteochondral abnormalities and mostly characterised by a tilted and lateral displaced patella<ref name="10">Frosch, S. et al. The Treatment of Patellar Dislocation: A Systematic Review. Z Orthop Unfall. 2011 May 3. [Level of Evidence: A1]</ref> <ref name="11">Grelsamer, RP. Patellar Malalignment. The Journal of Bone &amp; Joint Surgery. 2000; 82:1639-1639 [Level of Evidence: A1]</ref>  
Patellar malalignment is a translational or rotational deviation of the patella to any axis, associated with several soft-tissue and osteochondral abnormalities and mostly characterised by a tilted and lateral displaced patella<ref name="p0">Frosch, S. et al. The Treatment of Patellar Dislocation: A Systematic Review. Z Orthop Unfall. 2011 May 3. [Level of Evidence: A1]</ref> <ref name="p1">Grelsamer, RP. Patellar Malalignment. The Journal of Bone &amp; Joint Surgery. 2000; 82:1639-1639 [Level of Evidence: A1]</ref>  


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== Clinically relevant anatomy  ==
== Clinically relevant anatomy  ==


The normal translational movement of the patella in the fossa intercondylaris at the front of the femur is guided by the tendons of the M. quadriceps femoris, the depth of the groove, the own intrinsic structure of the patella and the localization of all muscles and osseous parts<ref name="4">Cailliet, R. Knee pain and disability. Philadelphia: F.A. Davis company, 1973. 153p. [Level of Evidence: D]</ref>. The localization of the patella is specifically determined by the borders of the femoral condyles, the balance between vastus lateralis and medialis and by the ligamentous support of the medial and lateral retinaculum<ref name="3">Brody, DM. Clinical symposia. Groot-Bijgaarden: Ciba-Geigy N.V. 1987. 47p. [Level of Evidence: D]</ref><sup>. </sup>  
The normal translational movement of the patella in the fossa intercondylaris at the front of the femur is guided by the tendons of the M. quadriceps femoris, the depth of the groove, the own intrinsic structure of the patella and the localization of all muscles and osseous parts<ref name="p4">Cailliet, R. Knee pain and disability. Philadelphia: F.A. Davis company, 1973. 153p. [Level of Evidence: D]</ref>. The localization of the patella is specifically determined by the borders of the femoral condyles, the balance between vastus lateralis and medialis and by the ligamentous support of the medial and lateral retinaculum<ref name="p3">Brody, DM. Clinical symposia. Groot-Bijgaarden: Ciba-Geigy N.V. 1987. 47p. [Level of Evidence: D]</ref><sup>. </sup>  


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== Characteristics / clinical presentation  ==
== Characteristics / clinical presentation  ==


Osseous abnormalities contain patella alta and baja<ref name="5">Colvin AC, West RV. Patellar instability. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2008 Dec;90(12):2751-62. [Level of Evidence: A1]</ref><ref name="11" />, a high tibial tuberosity and trochlear groove distance<ref name="5" /><ref name="10" /><sup>&nbsp;</sup>trochlear dysplasia<ref name="3">Brody, DM. Clinical symposia. Groot-Bijgaarden: Ciba-Geigy N.V. 1987. 47p. [Level of Evidence: D]</ref><ref name="4" /><ref name="5" /><ref name="10" />&nbsp;like a shallow or convex fossa intercondylaris<ref name="4" /><ref name="11" />, patellar dysplasia<ref name="4" />, an external tibial rotation<ref name="4" />&nbsp;or internal femur rotation<ref name="2">Boling, MC. Et al. Concentric and Eccentric Torque of the Hip Musculature in Individuals With and Without Patellofemoral Pain. J Athl Train. 2009 Jan-Feb; 44(1): 7–13. [Level of Evidence: A2]</ref><ref name="12">Hvid I, Andersen LI. The quadriceps angle and its relation to femoral torsion. Acta Orthop Scand. 1982 Aug;53(4):577-9.</ref>. A lot of studies pay attention to a weakened M. vastus medialis obliquus associated with patellar malalignment<ref name="3" /><ref name="4" /><ref name="5" /><ref name="10" /><ref name="11" /><ref name="13">Laprade J, et al. Comparison of five isometric exercises in the recruitment of the vastus medialis oblique in persons with and without patellofemoral pain syndrome. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 1998 Mar;27(3):197-204. [Level of Evidence : C]</ref><ref name="14">Lin, YF. Et al. Association between sonographic morphology of vastus medialis obliquus and patellar alignment in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2008 Apr;38(4):196-202.</ref><ref name="16">Lin, YF. Et al. Role of the vastus medialis obliquus in repositioning the patella: a dynamic computed tomography study. Am J Sports Med. 2008 Apr;36(4):741-6</ref>. This component of the M. quadriceps femoris may be proximally positioned and vertically orientated and may even not reach the patella in patients with patellar malalignment<ref name="4" /><ref name="11" />. As a result, the effectiveness of the VMO as a dynamic stabilizer get lost. Other soft tissue abnormalities related to patellar malaligment include: a lesion of the medial retinaculum<ref name="5" /><ref name="10" />; an increased Q-angle<ref name="11" />; tightness of the lateral retinaculum<ref name="3" /><ref name="11" /><ref name="21">Sanchis-Alfonso, V. Anterior knee pain and patellar instability. London: Springer, 2006: 378p. [Level of Evidence: D]</ref>, the hamstrings, the ilitibial band and the vastus lateralis<ref name="3" /><ref name="11" />.&nbsp;The findings mentioned above typically focus on the joint itself while other believe that patellar malalignment may be influenced by the interaction of all segments and joints of the lower extremity. In particular, the balance between exo- and –endorotators in the hip is disturbed<ref name="2">Boling, MC. Et al. Concentric and Eccentric Torque of the Hip Musculature in Individuals With and Without Patellofemoral Pain. J Athl Train. 2009 Jan-Feb; 44(1): 7–13. [Level of Evidence: A2]</ref><ref name="15">Lin YF et al. Different effects of femoral and tibial rotation on the different measurements of patella tilting: An axial computed tomography study. J Orthop Surg Res. 2008 Feb 12;3:5.</ref><ref name="17">Mascal CL, et al. Management of patellofemoral pain targeting hip, pelvis, and trunk muscle function: 2 case reports. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2003 Nov;33(11):647-60. [Level of Evidence: C]</ref><ref name="20">Powers CM. The influence of altered lower-extremity kinematics on patellofemoral joint dysfunction: a theoretical perspective. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2003 Nov;33(11):639-46. [Level of Evidence: A1]</ref><ref name="23">Souza RB, et al. Femur rotation and patellofemoral joint kinematics: a weight-bearing magnetic resonance imaging analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2010 May;40(5):277-85.</ref>&nbsp;showing an excessive medial femoral rotation, as opposed to lateral patella rotation<ref name="23" />.<sup>.</sup>  
Osseous abnormalities contain patella alta and baja<ref name="p5">Colvin AC, West RV. Patellar instability. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2008 Dec;90(12):2751-62. [Level of Evidence: A1]</ref><ref name="p1" />, a high tibial tuberosity and trochlear groove distance<ref name="p5" /><ref name="p0" /><sup>&nbsp;</sup>trochlear dysplasia<ref name="p3">Brody, DM. Clinical symposia. Groot-Bijgaarden: Ciba-Geigy N.V. 1987. 47p. [Level of Evidence: D]</ref><ref name="p4" /><ref name="p5" /><ref name="p0" />&nbsp;like a shallow or convex fossa intercondylaris<ref name="p4" /><ref name="p1" />, patellar dysplasia<ref name="p4" />, an external tibial rotation<ref name="p4" />&nbsp;or internal femur rotation<ref name="p2">Boling, MC. Et al. Concentric and Eccentric Torque of the Hip Musculature in Individuals With and Without Patellofemoral Pain. J Athl Train. 2009 Jan-Feb; 44(1): 7–13. [Level of Evidence: A2]</ref><ref name="p2">Hvid I, Andersen LI. The quadriceps angle and its relation to femoral torsion. Acta Orthop Scand. 1982 Aug;53(4):577-9.</ref>. A lot of studies pay attention to a weakened M. vastus medialis obliquus associated with patellar malalignment<ref name="p3" /><ref name="p4" /><ref name="p5" /><ref name="p0" /><ref name="p1" /><ref name="p3">Laprade J, et al. Comparison of five isometric exercises in the recruitment of the vastus medialis oblique in persons with and without patellofemoral pain syndrome. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 1998 Mar;27(3):197-204. [Level of Evidence : C]</ref><ref name="p4">Lin, YF. Et al. Association between sonographic morphology of vastus medialis obliquus and patellar alignment in patients with patellofemoral pain syndrome. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2008 Apr;38(4):196-202.</ref><ref name="p6">Lin, YF. Et al. Role of the vastus medialis obliquus in repositioning the patella: a dynamic computed tomography study. Am J Sports Med. 2008 Apr;36(4):741-6</ref>. This component of the M. quadriceps femoris may be proximally positioned and vertically orientated and may even not reach the patella in patients with patellar malalignment<ref name="p4" /><ref name="p1" />. As a result, the effectiveness of the VMO as a dynamic stabilizer get lost. Other soft tissue abnormalities related to patellar malaligment include: a lesion of the medial retinaculum<ref name="p5" /><ref name="p0" />; an increased Q-angle<ref name="p1" />; tightness of the lateral retinaculum<ref name="p3" /><ref name="p1" /><ref name="p1">Sanchis-Alfonso, V. Anterior knee pain and patellar instability. London: Springer, 2006: 378p. [Level of Evidence: D]</ref>, the hamstrings, the ilitibial band and the vastus lateralis<ref name="p3" /><ref name="p1" />.&nbsp;The findings mentioned above typically focus on the joint itself while other believe that patellar malalignment may be influenced by the interaction of all segments and joints of the lower extremity. In particular, the balance between exo- and –endorotators in the hip is disturbed<ref name="p2">Boling, MC. Et al. Concentric and Eccentric Torque of the Hip Musculature in Individuals With and Without Patellofemoral Pain. J Athl Train. 2009 Jan-Feb; 44(1): 7–13. [Level of Evidence: A2]</ref><ref name="p5">Lin YF et al. Different effects of femoral and tibial rotation on the different measurements of patella tilting: An axial computed tomography study. J Orthop Surg Res. 2008 Feb 12;3:5.</ref><ref name="p7">Mascal CL, et al. Management of patellofemoral pain targeting hip, pelvis, and trunk muscle function: 2 case reports. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2003 Nov;33(11):647-60. [Level of Evidence: C]</ref><ref name="p0">Powers CM. The influence of altered lower-extremity kinematics on patellofemoral joint dysfunction: a theoretical perspective. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2003 Nov;33(11):639-46. [Level of Evidence: A1]</ref><ref name="p3">Souza RB, et al. Femur rotation and patellofemoral joint kinematics: a weight-bearing magnetic resonance imaging analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2010 May;40(5):277-85.</ref>&nbsp;showing an excessive medial femoral rotation, as opposed to lateral patella rotation<ref name="p3" />.<sup>.</sup>  


Patellar malalignment is more common in women then in men<ref name="6">Csintalan RP, et al. Gender differences in patellofemoral joint biomechanics. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2002 Sep;(402):260-9.</ref><ref name="21">Sanchis-Alfonso, V. Anterior knee pain and patellar instability. London: Springer, 2006: 378p. [Level of Evidence: D]</ref>.<sup>&nbsp;</sup>This higher incidence in women may be influenced by anatomic factors, such as increased pelvic width<ref name="21" />,<sup>&nbsp;</sup>patellar height, tibial tubercle position<ref name="18">Metin Cubuk, S. et al. Tibial tubercle position and patellar height as indicators of malalignment in women with anterior knee pain. Clin Anat. 2000;13(3):199-203.</ref>, Q-angle and internal hip rotation<ref name="12">Hvid I, Andersen LI. The quadriceps angle and its relation to femoral torsion. Acta Orthop Scand. 1982 Aug;53(4):577-9.</ref>.<sup>&nbsp;</sup>Also postural and sociological factors, such as wearing high heels and sitting with legs adducted should be considered as a possible risk factor for developing patellar malalignment<ref name="21" />.  
Patellar malalignment is more common in women then in men<ref name="p6">Csintalan RP, et al. Gender differences in patellofemoral joint biomechanics. Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2002 Sep;(402):260-9.</ref><ref name="p1">Sanchis-Alfonso, V. Anterior knee pain and patellar instability. London: Springer, 2006: 378p. [Level of Evidence: D]</ref>.<sup>&nbsp;</sup>This higher incidence in women may be influenced by anatomic factors, such as increased pelvic width<ref name="p1" />,<sup>&nbsp;</sup>patellar height, tibial tubercle position<ref name="p8">Metin Cubuk, S. et al. Tibial tubercle position and patellar height as indicators of malalignment in women with anterior knee pain. Clin Anat. 2000;13(3):199-203.</ref>, Q-angle and internal hip rotation<ref name="p2">Hvid I, Andersen LI. The quadriceps angle and its relation to femoral torsion. Acta Orthop Scand. 1982 Aug;53(4):577-9.</ref>.<sup>&nbsp;</sup>Also postural and sociological factors, such as wearing high heels and sitting with legs adducted should be considered as a possible risk factor for developing patellar malalignment<ref name="p1" />.  


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== Differential diagnosis  ==
== Differential diagnosis  ==


Patellar malalignment may be the underlining cause for certain disorders like patellofemoral pain syndrome<ref name="8">Crossley K, et al. Patellar taping: is clinical success supported by scientific evidence? Man Ther. 2000 Aug;5(3):142-50. [Level of Evidence: A1]</ref><ref name="19">Ng GY, Cheng JM. The effects of patellar taping on pain and neuromuscular performance in subjects with patellofemoral pain syndrome. Clin Rehabil. 2002 Dec;16(8):821-7. [Level of Evidence: B]</ref>, Osgood-Schlatter disease<ref name="11" />, patellar tendinitis, neural inflammation, altered proprioception (instability), venous congestion and bipartite patella<ref name="11" />. The development of pain and instability in patients with patellar malalignment seems to be set off by a trigger which varies from patient to patient. Trauma is a potential trigger. Nerve fiber changes in the lateral retinaculum can cause pain<ref name="11" />. This neural factor in combination with mechanical anomalies and knee overuse increases possible consequences of patellar malalignment<ref name="22">Sanchis-Alfonso V, et al. Pathogenesis of anterior knee pain syndrome and functional patellofemoral instability in the active young. Am J Knee Surg. 1999 Winter;12(1):29-40.</ref><sup>. </sup>Pain as a result of patellar malalignment may be located anterior, lateral and medial of the patella. Pain may also be perceived in the popliteal area<ref name="11" /><sup>.</sup>  
Patellar malalignment may be the underlining cause for certain disorders like patellofemoral pain syndrome<ref name="p8">Crossley K, et al. Patellar taping: is clinical success supported by scientific evidence? Man Ther. 2000 Aug;5(3):142-50. [Level of Evidence: A1]</ref><ref name="p9">Ng GY, Cheng JM. The effects of patellar taping on pain and neuromuscular performance in subjects with patellofemoral pain syndrome. Clin Rehabil. 2002 Dec;16(8):821-7. [Level of Evidence: B]</ref>, Osgood-Schlatter disease<ref name="p1" />, patellar tendinitis, neural inflammation, altered proprioception (instability), venous congestion and bipartite patella<ref name="p1" />. The development of pain and instability in patients with patellar malalignment seems to be set off by a trigger which varies from patient to patient. Trauma is a potential trigger. Nerve fiber changes in the lateral retinaculum can cause pain<ref name="p1" />. This neural factor in combination with mechanical anomalies and knee overuse increases possible consequences of patellar malalignment<ref name="p2">Sanchis-Alfonso V, et al. Pathogenesis of anterior knee pain syndrome and functional patellofemoral instability in the active young. Am J Knee Surg. 1999 Winter;12(1):29-40.</ref><sup>. </sup>Pain as a result of patellar malalignment may be located anterior, lateral and medial of the patella. Pain may also be perceived in the popliteal area<ref name="p1" /><sup>.</sup>  


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== Diagnostic procedures  ==
== Diagnostic procedures  ==


The physical examination of a patient with patellar malalignment isn’t easy because there is no specific sign accepted as proof of malalignment. Though there are several symptoms and examinations that may help to suspect malalignment. Symptoms such as giving-way, stiffness, crepitation and tenderness should arouse suspicion for patellar malalignment, although these symptoms are shared by other conditions. Lower extremity alignment, foot abnormalities such as pronation and gait should be inspected. While seated, an extension of the knee is asked. When the patient approaches full extension of the knee, the patella assumes a lateralised position. The vastus medialis obliquus may be atrophied, so cannot be identified by sight or palpation. The apprehension sign, whereby the patient becomes apprehensive as the knee is extended while a laterally directed force is applied to the patella, is an insensitive test to suspect malalignment. Patients with pain caused by patellar malalignment, have difficulties arising from a seated position and climbing stairs as these activities aggravate the pressure around the patella<ref name="11" />.  
The physical examination of a patient with patellar malalignment isn’t easy because there is no specific sign accepted as proof of malalignment. Though there are several symptoms and examinations that may help to suspect malalignment. Symptoms such as giving-way, stiffness, crepitation and tenderness should arouse suspicion for patellar malalignment, although these symptoms are shared by other conditions. Lower extremity alignment, foot abnormalities such as pronation and gait should be inspected. While seated, an extension of the knee is asked. When the patient approaches full extension of the knee, the patella assumes a lateralised position. The vastus medialis obliquus may be atrophied, so cannot be identified by sight or palpation. The apprehension sign, whereby the patient becomes apprehensive as the knee is extended while a laterally directed force is applied to the patella, is an insensitive test to suspect malalignment. Patients with pain caused by patellar malalignment, have difficulties arising from a seated position and climbing stairs as these activities aggravate the pressure around the patella<ref name="p1" />.  


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== Medical managament  ==
== Medical managament  ==


It is very common to realign the patella in the fossa intercondylaris with operative interventions such as proximal and distal realignment<ref name="1">Boden BP et al. Patellofemoral Instability: Evaluation and Management. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 1997 Jan;5(1):47-57. [Level of Evidence: A1]</ref><ref name="5">Colvin AC, West RV. Patellar instability. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2008 Dec;90(12):2751-62. [Level of Evidence: A1]</ref><ref name="11" /><sup>. </sup>  
It is very common to realign the patella in the fossa intercondylaris with operative interventions such as proximal and distal realignment<ref name="p1">Boden BP et al. Patellofemoral Instability: Evaluation and Management. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 1997 Jan;5(1):47-57. [Level of Evidence: A1]</ref><ref name="p5">Colvin AC, West RV. Patellar instability. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2008 Dec;90(12):2751-62. [Level of Evidence: A1]</ref><ref name="p1" /><sup>. </sup>  


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== Physical therapy management  ==
== Physical therapy management  ==


Physical therapy includes strengthening of the vastus medialis obliquus or the external hip rotator, effective patellar taping or bracing, balanced strengthening, proprioceptive training and stretching of structures like the lateral retinaculum, the iliotibial band, the quadriceps and the hamstrings, will help patients avoid surgery<ref name="9">Fulkerson, JP. Diagnosis and Treatment of Patients with Patellofemoral Pain. Am J Sports Med May 2002 vol. 30 no. 3 447-456 [Level of Evidence: A1]</ref><ref name="11" /><sup>.</sup>  
Physical therapy includes strengthening of the vastus medialis obliquus or the external hip rotator, effective patellar taping or bracing, balanced strengthening, proprioceptive training and stretching of structures like the lateral retinaculum, the iliotibial band, the quadriceps and the hamstrings, will help patients avoid surgery<ref name="p9">Fulkerson, JP. Diagnosis and Treatment of Patients with Patellofemoral Pain. Am J Sports Med May 2002 vol. 30 no. 3 447-456 [Level of Evidence: A1]</ref><ref name="p1" /><sup>.</sup>  


An exercise program to strengthen the vastus medialis should be designed to enhance the quadriceps while keeping joint stress to a minimum<ref name="20">Powers CM. The influence of altered lower-extremity kinematics on patellofemoral joint dysfunction: a theoretical perspective. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2003 Nov;33(11):639-46. [Level of Evidence: A1]</ref>. This program has to be specific to the patella, taking its possible cartilage into account. Early flexion activities should be avoided when patellar lesions are distal, in contrary of exercises at approximately 90 degrees of flexion which are discouraged in the presence of proximal lesions<ref name="11" />.  
An exercise program to strengthen the vastus medialis should be designed to enhance the quadriceps while keeping joint stress to a minimum<ref name="p0">Powers CM. The influence of altered lower-extremity kinematics on patellofemoral joint dysfunction: a theoretical perspective. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2003 Nov;33(11):639-46. [Level of Evidence: A1]</ref>. This program has to be specific to the patella, taking its possible cartilage into account. Early flexion activities should be avoided when patellar lesions are distal, in contrary of exercises at approximately 90 degrees of flexion which are discouraged in the presence of proximal lesions<ref name="p1" />.  


According to another theory, an influence of other joints on patellar tilt exists. Because of this vision, patellar malalignment can not be treated separately and independent of the related limb alignment<ref name="15" />.<sup>&nbsp;</sup>In stead of treating a lateral patella rotation, an excessive medial femoral rotation is to be taking care of. Following this theory, the control of femur rotation may be important in restoring normal patellar alignment<ref name="23">Souza RB, et al. Femur rotation and patellofemoral joint kinematics: a weight-bearing magnetic resonance imaging analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2010 May;40(5):277-85.</ref>&nbsp;and so a strengthening program of hip external rotators may decrease patellar malalignment<ref name="9" /><span style="font-size: 11px;">.</span>  
According to another theory, an influence of other joints on patellar tilt exists. Because of this vision, patellar malalignment can not be treated separately and independent of the related limb alignment<ref name="p5" />.<sup>&nbsp;</sup>In stead of treating a lateral patella rotation, an excessive medial femoral rotation is to be taking care of. Following this theory, the control of femur rotation may be important in restoring normal patellar alignment<ref name="p3">Souza RB, et al. Femur rotation and patellofemoral joint kinematics: a weight-bearing magnetic resonance imaging analysis. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2010 May;40(5):277-85.</ref>&nbsp;and so a strengthening program of hip external rotators may decrease patellar malalignment<ref name="p9" /><span style="font-size: 11px;">.</span>  


Patellar tape and braces are designed to realign the patella within the femoral trochlea . This improves realignment and quadriceps function<ref name="7">Crossley KM, et al. Can patellar tape reduce the patellar malalignment and pain associated with patellofemoral osteoarthritis? Arthritis Rheum. 2009 Dec 15;61(12):1719-25. [Level of Evidence: B]</ref><ref name="8">Crossley K, et al. Patellar taping: is clinical success supported by scientific evidence? Man Ther. 2000 Aug;5(3):142-50. [Level of Evidence: A1]</ref><ref name="11" />. Taping across an overly powerfull vastus lateralis can diminish its pull and so stimulate realignment. Another goal of taping is to pull the patella away from a painful area<ref name="11" />.  
Patellar tape and braces are designed to realign the patella within the femoral trochlea . This improves realignment and quadriceps function<ref name="p7">Crossley KM, et al. Can patellar tape reduce the patellar malalignment and pain associated with patellofemoral osteoarthritis? Arthritis Rheum. 2009 Dec 15;61(12):1719-25. [Level of Evidence: B]</ref><ref name="p8">Crossley K, et al. Patellar taping: is clinical success supported by scientific evidence? Man Ther. 2000 Aug;5(3):142-50. [Level of Evidence: A1]</ref><ref name="p1" />. Taping across an overly powerfull vastus lateralis can diminish its pull and so stimulate realignment. Another goal of taping is to pull the patella away from a painful area<ref name="p1" />.  


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Revision as of 12:45, 6 June 2017

Original Editor ­ Cok Lena  Top Contributors - Cok Lena, Oyemi Sillo, Kim Jackson, WikiSysop, 127.0.0.1, Admin and Wanda van Niekerk


Definition / description[edit | edit source]

Patellar malalignment is a translational or rotational deviation of the patella to any axis, associated with several soft-tissue and osteochondral abnormalities and mostly characterised by a tilted and lateral displaced patella[1] [2]


patella malalignment


Clinically relevant anatomy[edit | edit source]

The normal translational movement of the patella in the fossa intercondylaris at the front of the femur is guided by the tendons of the M. quadriceps femoris, the depth of the groove, the own intrinsic structure of the patella and the localization of all muscles and osseous parts[3]. The localization of the patella is specifically determined by the borders of the femoral condyles, the balance between vastus lateralis and medialis and by the ligamentous support of the medial and lateral retinaculum[4].


normal patellar alignment


Characteristics / clinical presentation[edit | edit source]

Osseous abnormalities contain patella alta and baja[5][2], a high tibial tuberosity and trochlear groove distance[5][1] trochlear dysplasia[4][3][5][1] like a shallow or convex fossa intercondylaris[3][2], patellar dysplasia[3], an external tibial rotation[3] or internal femur rotation[6][6]. A lot of studies pay attention to a weakened M. vastus medialis obliquus associated with patellar malalignment[4][3][5][1][2][4][3][7]. This component of the M. quadriceps femoris may be proximally positioned and vertically orientated and may even not reach the patella in patients with patellar malalignment[3][2]. As a result, the effectiveness of the VMO as a dynamic stabilizer get lost. Other soft tissue abnormalities related to patellar malaligment include: a lesion of the medial retinaculum[5][1]; an increased Q-angle[2]; tightness of the lateral retinaculum[4][2][2], the hamstrings, the ilitibial band and the vastus lateralis[4][2]. The findings mentioned above typically focus on the joint itself while other believe that patellar malalignment may be influenced by the interaction of all segments and joints of the lower extremity. In particular, the balance between exo- and –endorotators in the hip is disturbed[6][5][8][1][4] showing an excessive medial femoral rotation, as opposed to lateral patella rotation[4]..

Patellar malalignment is more common in women then in men[7][2]. This higher incidence in women may be influenced by anatomic factors, such as increased pelvic width[2], patellar height, tibial tubercle position[9], Q-angle and internal hip rotation[6]. Also postural and sociological factors, such as wearing high heels and sitting with legs adducted should be considered as a possible risk factor for developing patellar malalignment[2].


Differential diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Patellar malalignment may be the underlining cause for certain disorders like patellofemoral pain syndrome[9][10], Osgood-Schlatter disease[2], patellar tendinitis, neural inflammation, altered proprioception (instability), venous congestion and bipartite patella[2]. The development of pain and instability in patients with patellar malalignment seems to be set off by a trigger which varies from patient to patient. Trauma is a potential trigger. Nerve fiber changes in the lateral retinaculum can cause pain[2]. This neural factor in combination with mechanical anomalies and knee overuse increases possible consequences of patellar malalignment[6]. Pain as a result of patellar malalignment may be located anterior, lateral and medial of the patella. Pain may also be perceived in the popliteal area[2].


Diagnostic procedures[edit | edit source]

The physical examination of a patient with patellar malalignment isn’t easy because there is no specific sign accepted as proof of malalignment. Though there are several symptoms and examinations that may help to suspect malalignment. Symptoms such as giving-way, stiffness, crepitation and tenderness should arouse suspicion for patellar malalignment, although these symptoms are shared by other conditions. Lower extremity alignment, foot abnormalities such as pronation and gait should be inspected. While seated, an extension of the knee is asked. When the patient approaches full extension of the knee, the patella assumes a lateralised position. The vastus medialis obliquus may be atrophied, so cannot be identified by sight or palpation. The apprehension sign, whereby the patient becomes apprehensive as the knee is extended while a laterally directed force is applied to the patella, is an insensitive test to suspect malalignment. Patients with pain caused by patellar malalignment, have difficulties arising from a seated position and climbing stairs as these activities aggravate the pressure around the patella[2].


Medical managament[edit | edit source]

It is very common to realign the patella in the fossa intercondylaris with operative interventions such as proximal and distal realignment[2][5][2].


Physical therapy management[edit | edit source]

Physical therapy includes strengthening of the vastus medialis obliquus or the external hip rotator, effective patellar taping or bracing, balanced strengthening, proprioceptive training and stretching of structures like the lateral retinaculum, the iliotibial band, the quadriceps and the hamstrings, will help patients avoid surgery[10][2].

An exercise program to strengthen the vastus medialis should be designed to enhance the quadriceps while keeping joint stress to a minimum[1]. This program has to be specific to the patella, taking its possible cartilage into account. Early flexion activities should be avoided when patellar lesions are distal, in contrary of exercises at approximately 90 degrees of flexion which are discouraged in the presence of proximal lesions[2].

According to another theory, an influence of other joints on patellar tilt exists. Because of this vision, patellar malalignment can not be treated separately and independent of the related limb alignment[5]. In stead of treating a lateral patella rotation, an excessive medial femoral rotation is to be taking care of. Following this theory, the control of femur rotation may be important in restoring normal patellar alignment[4] and so a strengthening program of hip external rotators may decrease patellar malalignment[10].

Patellar tape and braces are designed to realign the patella within the femoral trochlea . This improves realignment and quadriceps function[8][9][2]. Taping across an overly powerfull vastus lateralis can diminish its pull and so stimulate realignment. Another goal of taping is to pull the patella away from a painful area[2].


Recent Related Research (from Pubmed)[edit | edit source]


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References[edit | edit source]

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 Frosch, S. et al. The Treatment of Patellar Dislocation: A Systematic Review. Z Orthop Unfall. 2011 May 3. [Level of Evidence: A1] Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "p0" defined multiple times with different content Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "p0" defined multiple times with different content
  2. 2.00 2.01 2.02 2.03 2.04 2.05 2.06 2.07 2.08 2.09 2.10 2.11 2.12 2.13 2.14 2.15 2.16 2.17 2.18 2.19 2.20 2.21 2.22 Grelsamer, RP. Patellar Malalignment. The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery. 2000; 82:1639-1639 [Level of Evidence: A1] Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "p1" defined multiple times with different content Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "p1" defined multiple times with different content Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "p1" defined multiple times with different content
  3. 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 3.6 3.7 Cailliet, R. Knee pain and disability. Philadelphia: F.A. Davis company, 1973. 153p. [Level of Evidence: D] Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "p4" defined multiple times with different content
  4. 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 4.7 4.8 Brody, DM. Clinical symposia. Groot-Bijgaarden: Ciba-Geigy N.V. 1987. 47p. [Level of Evidence: D] Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "p3" defined multiple times with different content Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "p3" defined multiple times with different content Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "p3" defined multiple times with different content
  5. 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6 5.7 Colvin AC, West RV. Patellar instability. J Bone Joint Surg Am. 2008 Dec;90(12):2751-62. [Level of Evidence: A1] Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "p5" defined multiple times with different content Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "p5" defined multiple times with different content
  6. 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 Boling, MC. Et al. Concentric and Eccentric Torque of the Hip Musculature in Individuals With and Without Patellofemoral Pain. J Athl Train. 2009 Jan-Feb; 44(1): 7–13. [Level of Evidence: A2] Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "p2" defined multiple times with different content Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "p2" defined multiple times with different content Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "p2" defined multiple times with different content Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "p2" defined multiple times with different content
  7. 7.0 7.1 Lin, YF. Et al. Role of the vastus medialis obliquus in repositioning the patella: a dynamic computed tomography study. Am J Sports Med. 2008 Apr;36(4):741-6 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "p6" defined multiple times with different content
  8. 8.0 8.1 Mascal CL, et al. Management of patellofemoral pain targeting hip, pelvis, and trunk muscle function: 2 case reports. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther. 2003 Nov;33(11):647-60. [Level of Evidence: C] Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "p7" defined multiple times with different content
  9. 9.0 9.1 9.2 Metin Cubuk, S. et al. Tibial tubercle position and patellar height as indicators of malalignment in women with anterior knee pain. Clin Anat. 2000;13(3):199-203. Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "p8" defined multiple times with different content Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "p8" defined multiple times with different content
  10. 10.0 10.1 10.2 Ng GY, Cheng JM. The effects of patellar taping on pain and neuromuscular performance in subjects with patellofemoral pain syndrome. Clin Rehabil. 2002 Dec;16(8):821-7. [Level of Evidence: B] Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "p9" defined multiple times with different content