A patellar fracture is a serious injury that affects the small bone at the front of the knee, known as the patella or kneecap. Because the patella protects the knee joint and helps with leg movement, a fracture can make it very difficult to walk, bend, or perform normal activities.
If you’re struggling with a knee injury or suspect you may have a patellar fracture, Orthopaedic Associates of Zanesville in Zanesville, OH, is here to help with knee care. Contact us now to find out how they can help you return to your daily life safely and confidently.
The patella is a small bone that sits in front of the knee joint and works with the thigh muscles and patellar tendon to straighten the leg. When the patella is broken, it’s called a fracture of the patella. This type of injury can range from a stable fracture, where the broken pieces remain in contact, to a severe break where the patella is broken into many pieces.
Because the patella plays such an important role in leg movement, even a minor fracture may affect your ability to walk, climb stairs, or perform a straight leg raise without pain.
There are different types of patellar fractures, each with unique characteristics:
Each type of fracture can impact treatment and recovery differently.
A fracture of the patella usually causes immediate and noticeable symptoms, which may include:
If the skin is broken, this could indicate an open fracture, which requires urgent medical attention.
A patella fracture most often results from a direct injury to the front of the knee, such as falling on a hard surface or being struck by an object. It can also happen when the thigh muscles contract suddenly and forcefully, pulling on the patellar tendon and causing the patella to break.
Common causes include:
Because this small bone plays a key role in knee movement, a fracture may impact daily motion immediately.
When a doctor suspects a patella fracture, they will perform a physical exam and order imaging tests. X-rays are the most common way to see if the patella is broken and to determine the type of fracture.
Sometimes, additional imaging like CT scans may be used for comminuted fractures or when small pieces of bone are involved. These tests help the doctor decide if the injury can be treated without surgery or if the patient will need surgery.
The treatment of patellar fractures depends on the type of fracture, whether the broken pieces remain in contact, and how well you can bear weight.
For a stable fracture, the doctor may recommend:
Patients are sometimes allowed to bear weight while wearing the brace, but only as directed by their physician.
If the patella is in two pieces, or if it’s a displaced fracture, open fracture, or comminuted fracture, you may need surgery.
Surgical techniques may include:
After surgery, patients are usually allowed to bear weight gradually, with guidance from their surgeon.
Even with proper treatment, complications may occur, including:
Working with experienced specialists helps lower the risk of long-term issues.
Healing times vary depending on the type of fracture, the patient’s overall health, and whether surgery was needed. Most patients feel better after 6 weeks and are able to return to normal activities within 3-6 months.
Physical therapy is an important part of recovery, helping restore range of motion and strengthen thigh muscles so the knee can function normally again.
A patella fracture can impact your ability to walk, bend, and return to normal activities. Whether your fracture may be minor or severe, you’ll benefit from the expertise of an orthopedic team that understands knee injuries inside and out.
If you or a loved one has suffered a patellar fracture, contact Orthopaedic Associates of Zanesville for an accurate diagnosis and customized treatment plan. Our experienced specialists will guide you from diagnosis through recovery so you can get back to moving confidently and living without pain.
Medically reviewed by Joshua Burka, DO
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A patellar fracture is a break in the patella (kneecap), the bone located at the front of the knee joint. The patella works with the thigh muscles and patellar tendon to help straighten the leg and support knee movement. When this bone breaks, it can significantly affect your ability to walk or move the knee normally.
Common symptoms include:
If the skin is broken near the injury, it may indicate an open fracture, which requires immediate medical attention.
Patellar fractures usually occur from direct trauma to the front of the knee. Common causes include:
Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture.
Non-surgical treatment may include:
Surgical treatment may be needed if the bone pieces move out of place or break into multiple parts. Surgery may involve pins, wires, or other techniques to hold the bone fragments together while they heal.
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the fracture and whether surgery was required. Many patients begin feeling better after about 6 weeks, while a full return to normal activities typically takes 3 to 6 months. Physical therapy often plays an important role in restoring knee strength and mobility.
