Patellar Tracking Disorder: Exams And Tests

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Exams and Tests

Patellar tracking disorder can be difficult to distinguish from other knee problems. If your knee still has pain after 2 weeks of stretching, strengthening, and rest from aggravating activity, your health professional will:

• Review your health history, including the history of your knee problem, your current physical activities, previous injuries, and family history of knee problems.
• Do a physical examination of your knee and the muscles, ligaments, and tendons that support it.

Tests that are done as needed

If your diagnosis is unclear, one or more of the following imaging tests may be used to gather additional information about your knee:

• X-ray, which is the standard imaging technique for assessing the position and condition of the knee bones
• CT scan, which is occasionally used for imaging the joint in more detail
• MRI, for evaluating cartilage or ligament damage, and to confirm the results of a physical exam

Last updated:	February 14, 2008
Author:	Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH
Reviewed By:	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine, Kenneth J. Koval, MD - Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Trauma
Editors:	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Pat Truman, MATC