Patella Mobilisations (For Knee Joint Rehabilitation)

Patella mobilisations differ from general knee mobilization exercises. The knee itself may stay relaxed while the patella glides in specific directions. This helps address stiffness that regular strengthening or stretching cannot reach.

In simple terms, patellar mobilisations improve how the kneecap moves so the knee can bend and straighten with less strain.

Why the Patella Is Important

The patella sits within the patellofemoral joint. It moves up and down and slightly side to side as the knee bends and straightens.

This movement supports knee extension and flexion. Tasks such as rising from a chair, climbing stairs, squatting, or walking downhill rely on smooth patella glide.

When patellar mobility reduces, the patella may not track evenly. This can increase joint stress, irritate cartilage, and contribute to stiffness or pain. Restoring this glide through patellofemoral mobilization can improve comfort and movement quality.

Who Benefits Most

Athletes and active adults
Running, jumping, and gym training place repeated load on the patellofemoral joint. Patella glides and related knee mobilisations may help when stiffness or tracking issues contribute to pain.

Desk workers and low movement routines
Prolonged sitting can affect knee mechanics. Many people notice pain when returning to stairs or sports due to reduced joint mobility.

Post-surgical patients
After ACL reconstruction, meniscus repair, or knee replacement, stiffness often limits patellar movement. Gentle patellar mobilisations support recovery when used at the right stage.

People with pain during daily tasks
Discomfort during stairs, squatting, kneeling, or longer walks may relate to reduced knee and patella movement rather than strength alone.

Common Conditions Where Patella Mobilisations Are Used

Patellofemoral pain syndrome PFPS
Often called runner’s knee. Pain sits around or behind the kneecap. Patellar mobilization may help improve tracking and reduce joint irritation.

Patellar tendinitis
Also known as jumper’s knee. While mobilisation does not treat the tendon directly, improving patella movement can reduce joint stress during loading tasks.

Knee osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis can reduce joint space and movement. Knee mobilizations, including patellar techniques, may help reduce stiffness and improve functional movement when combined with exercise.

Postoperative stiffness
After surgery, swelling and reduced activity can limit patellar glide. Mobilisation helps prevent adhesions and supports knee’s range of motion.

Patellar subluxation history
Some people experience partial kneecap shifts. Mobilisation may be used carefully when stiffness contributes, alongside strengthening and control work.

Types of Patella Mobilisations

These techniques aim to restore glide rather than force movement. Direction depends on assessment findings.

Superior and inferior patella glides
These support knee bending and straightening and are often paired with knee extension mobilization or knee flexion mobilization strategies.

Medial and lateral patella glides
Used when tracking issues cause the patella to drift to one side.

Patellar tilts
Used when soft tissue tightness restricts normal kneecap movement.

In physiotherapy, these techniques follow the grades of joint mobilization, usually Grade I to IV. Lower grades focus on pain relief. Higher grades aim to improve movement range. Grade V techniques are not used for patella mobilisation.