Hello,
Thanks for the query to H.C.M.Forum.
Knee cap ( we call it
patella) is nothing to do with movement of knee joint.
However if inflammation or
injury to this knee cap, than it may interfere in walking.
Knee joint have
Femur ( upper bone) and
tibia ( lower bone). Knee cap is only for protection of this joint. ( you can call it a helmet).
This is the weight bearing joint of body.
If person is obese than there is difficulty in movements when some one walks.
So please mention your weight and height.
2nd reason may be inflammation of knee joint(
osteoarthritis)
Next joint which bears whole of the weight of the body is ankle joint.
Consult a orthopaedician and get in an X ray of both joints.
Get in blood examination for C B C and E S R ( for chronic infection).
Ligaments torn is most common features of these weight bearing joints.
So consultation of orthopaedician will find out the disease.
Hope I have answered your query.
If further any question I will help.
Good luck.
Dr. HET