Luxating patella, also known as: trick knee, subluxation of the patella, floating patella or floating kneecap is a condition in which the patella (kneecap) dislocates or moves from it’s normal location.
The patella has 3 parts; the femur, patella and tibia. The patella is meant to slide into the groove on the face of the femur, when the patella isn’t lined up properly it can’t slide into the groove so it luxates or jumps out of the groove.
There are 4 grades of patella luxation ranging from grade 1 which is an occasional luxation to grade 4 where the turning of the tibia is severe and the patella can’t be manually realigned.
Causes: 
Luxating patella may be caused by a number of factors however, most frequently it’s a congenital defect. Past traumas to the knee can also cause the condition. Certain smaller breeds such as Miniature Poodles, Chihuahuas, Boston Terriers, Yorkshire Terriers are more likely to develop the condition. Dogs with other skeletal problems which impact the dog’s leg structure or it’s gait e.g. Hip/Elbow Dysplasia, panosteitis, malformation of the groove of the patella during the growth stage are more likely to develop luxating patella. Bad breeding and obesity are also factors that can increase a dogs chance of developing the condition.
Symptoms: Symptoms vary according to the severity of the condition. The majority of dogs with luxating patella will hold the affected limb up for a few steps, this looks like a skip. They may also shake or extend the limb prior to regaining it’s full use. Other symptoms can include stopping suddenly, crying out in pain, a hop hop skip action, a lack of movement in the stifle. As the disease worsens lameness becomes more frequent and eventually becomes continuous. Young puppies with severe medial patella luxation often present a “bow-legged” appearance of the hind legs that worsens with growth.
Massage:
- Ensures areas of overcompensation are minimised (when there’s a problem with the knee the iliocostalis will usually shorten).
- Deals with areas of referred pain.
- Helps the dog use all 4 limbs equally minimising the risk of issues arising in the other patella.
- Helps ease soreness and stiffness.
- Alleviates tightness in other areas.
- Helps the dog stay mobile and active.
- Is an effective form of pain management.