Understanding Patellar Tracking in Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee osteoarthritis is a common condition that affects many people and can cause significant pain and mobility issues. One of the lesser-known but important factors contributing to discomfort and reduced function is patellar tracking disorder. This occurs when the kneecap (or patella) does not move smoothly along its natural groove at the end of the thigh bone during knee movement. When this tracking goes awry, it can worsen pain, instability, and stiffness.

Maintaining comfortable alignment and smooth kneecap glide is especially important for people whose symptoms are made worse by this problem. Simple everyday activities such as walking, climbing stairs, or standing up from a chair may become difficult and even daunting. In some rare cases, severe knee osteoarthritis can lead to a longer-term dislocation of the kneecap. In these instances, surgical solutions such as total knee replacement sometimes use a technique called lateral patellar retinaculum release — a procedure that helps stabilise kneecap movement. Research has shown that this method “can obtain stable patellar tracking” even in cases of long-standing kneecap dislocation (Kumagai et al., 2017). Understanding these movement difficulties is vital to improving knee comfort and mobility.

What is Arthrosamid and How Does It Help?

Arthrosamid is an innovative injectable treatment designed specifically to help people with knee osteoarthritis. It contains a polyacrylamide hydrogel, a substance that acts like a cushioning gel inside the joint. This helps to improve lubrication and reduce friction between joint surfaces — which is crucial for maintaining the kneecap’s smooth glide during movement.

While studies show Arthrosamid is generally safe and effective, the question remains: which patients benefit most? The current research acknowledges that “the literature surrounding which patients would incur the most benefit from Arthrosamid is limited” (Gao et al., 2025). This suggests that patient selection and personalised treatment play major roles in success. Arthrosamid is best used as part of a wider approach to care, tailored to the individual’s specific condition.

Supporting Recovery: Gentle Strengthening and Multidisciplinary Care

Treatments like Arthrosamid can offer significant relief, but they are most effective when combined with exercise and rehabilitation. Gentle strengthening exercises help rebalance the muscles around the knee, supporting healthier kneecap tracking and improving overall joint stability. Low-impact physiotherapy is key to gradually building strength without causing further strain.

A team approach involving specialists from orthopaedics, physiotherapy, and pain management ensures that all aspects of knee health are addressed. Clinics such as MSK Doctors provide expert, personalised care within a professional and supportive environment. The extensive experience of professionals like Professor Paul Lee — who specialises in both orthopaedics and rehabilitation — helps to guide treatment plans that aim to improve daily function and restore stair confidence. This holistic care approach offers patients their best chance of improved mobility and comfort.

Realistic Expectations and the Importance of Expert Guidance

It’s important for patients to set realistic expectations when considering treatments such as Arthrosamid. Individual responses can vary widely, depending on factors like the severity of osteoarthritis, overall health, and commitment to rehabilitation. Research continues to evolve, with calls to “identify which patient factors would allow Arthrosamid to provide the most clinical benefit” (Gao et al., 2025).

In some severe cases, surgical options like total knee arthroplasty remain important solutions. Remarkably, research has reported cases where “good patellar reduction [was achieved] without additional surgery” through particular surgical techniques involving lateral retinaculum release — even after many years of patellar dislocation due to osteoarthritis (Kumagai et al., 2017). This highlights the variety of effective approaches available to those struggling with knee alignment issues.

If you are experiencing difficulties related to patellar tracking or knee osteoarthritis, it is crucial to seek tailored advice from qualified orthopaedic specialists. They can help develop a personalised plan that combines the right treatments and rehabilitation for your unique needs.

For individual medical advice, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.

References

Gao, H. C. K., Akhtar, M., Creedon, C., Nar, Ö. O., & Lee, P. Y. (2025). THE IMPACT OF PATIENT FACTORS ON THE MINIMAL CLINICALLY IMPORTANT DIFFERENCE OF ARTHROSAMID POLYACRYLAMIDE HYDROGEL INJECTION FOR KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS: A COHORT STUDY. Journal of Osteoarthritis and Cartilage. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joca.2025.02.648

Kumagai, K., Kubo, M., Maeda, T., Araki, S., Shioji, S., Okumura, N., Fujikawa, H., Kawasaki, T., Imai, S., & Matsusue, Y. (2017). Total knee arthroplasty for treatment of osteoarthritis with prolonged patellar dislocation. Arthroplasty Today, 3(1), 25-28. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.artd.2016.10.001