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:

1. Pain and tenderness in the front of the knee, specifically over the kneecap
2. Swelling and localized warmth in the affected area
3. Redness and increased sensitivity to touch
4. Limited range of motion in the knee joint
5. Discomfort or pain with activities that involve kneeling, squatting, or prolonged periods of bending the knee

In some cases, the swelling may be significant enough to cause a visible lump or protrusion over the kneecap.

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 is rarely required for kneecap bursitis unless there is an underlying condition that needs to be addressed, such as removing a persistently infected bursa.

If symptoms of kneecap bursitis persist or worsen despite conservative measures, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional, such as an orthopedic specialist, who can provide a proper diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options tailored to the individual’s specific condition.

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.