What increases my risk for patellar tracking disorder?

Some risk factors (things that increase your risk) for patellar tracking disorder are beyond your control. Others, such as having weak quadriceps, you can change.

Things that you cannot change

• Family history of knee problems.
• Knee abnormalities, such as knock-knees, a shallow femoral groove, a small or flat patella or an excessively long patellar tendon that allows the patella to slide too high on the knee joint (patella alta).
• A poorly healed injury of the hip, leg, knee or foot.
• Previous kneecap dislocation.
• Previous knee surgery.
• Generalized ligamentous laxity, or "loose-jointedness."
• Damage to cartilage.

Things that you can avoid or change

• Weak thigh muscles (quadriceps).
• The outer part of your thigh muscle is stronger or contracts quicker than the inner thigh muscle.
• Tight ligaments, tendons and muscles.
• Excessive body weight.
• Running, particularly on hills.
• Playing sports that require repeated jumping, knee bending or squatting.
• Improper footwear.
• Improper technique and/or lack of adequate training for sports or other activities.