Kneecap Bursitis

If you suffer from kneecap bursitis, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Is Kneecap Bursitis?

Kneecap bursitis, also known as prepatellar bursitis or housemaid’s knee, is a condition characterized by inflammation of the prepatellar bursa, a small fluid-filled sac located in front of the kneecap. The bursa acts as a cushion, reducing friction between the kneecap and the overlying skin and tissues.

Kneecap bursitis can be caused by various factors, including:

1. Repetitive pressure or friction: Activities that involve frequent kneelings, such as gardening, cleaning, or certain sports, can irritate and inflame the prepatellar bursa.
2. Trauma: Direct blows or impact to the front of the knee, such as falls, can lead to bursitis.
3. Infection: In rare cases, the bursa can become infected, resulting in infectious bursitis.

Indication Of Kneecap Bursitis

Common symptoms of kneecap bursitis include pain and tenderness in the front of the knee, particularly over the kneecap, accompanied by swelling and localized warmth in the affected area. Additionally, there may be redness and increased sensitivity to touch, along with limited range of motion in the knee joint. Activities involving kneeling, squatting, or prolonged bending of the knee can exacerbate discomfort or pain. In more severe cases, the swelling may be pronounced enough to create a visible lump or protrusion over the kneecap. These symptoms often indicate inflammation of the bursa sac, a small fluid-filled sac located near the knee joint, which becomes irritated and swollen due to overuse, trauma, or infection. Prompt medical attention and appropriate treatment can help alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications.

Treatment For Kneecap Bursitis

The treatment of kneecap bursitis focuses on relieving symptoms and addressing the underlying cause. This may include:

1. Rest and activity modification: Avoiding activities that aggravate the symptoms, such as kneeling or putting direct pressure on the affected knee, can help alleviate inflammation and promote healing.
2. Ice therapy: Applying ice packs or cold compresses to the affected area can help reduce pain and swelling.
3. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
4. Compression and elevation: Wearing a compression bandage or knee sleeve and elevating the leg can help reduce swelling.
5. Aspiration and corticosteroid injection: In some cases, the accumulated fluid within the bursa may be drained using a needle (aspiration), and corticosteroid medication may be injected to reduce inflammation.
6. Antibiotics (if infection is present): If infectious bursitis is suspected, antibiotic treatment may be necessary to resolve the infection.

Surgical intervention for kneecap bursitis is seldom necessary unless an underlying condition, like removing a persistently infected bursa, requires attention. If symptoms persist or worsen despite conservative measures, individuals should consult a healthcare professional, such as an orthopedic specialist, for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment recommendations.

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.