Prepatellar bursitis, often called "housemaid's knee," is a painful condition affecting the bursa—a fluid-filled sac—located in front of the kneecap (patella). While it can affect anyone, it's particularly prevalent among individuals involved in activities that place repetitive stress on the knees, making it a significant concern in sports medicine. This guide will provide comprehensive information to help patients understand, manage, and recover from prepatellar bursitis.
What is Prepatellar Bursitis?
Prepatellar bursitis is the inflammation of the prepatellar bursa, a small sac filled with fluid that cushions the kneecap and reduces friction between the kneecap and the skin. This inflammation is typically caused by repetitive kneeling, direct trauma, or infection. In sports medicine, it's frequently seen in athletes engaging in activities requiring prolonged kneeling, such as wrestlers, weightlifters, and certain martial artists. The condition manifests as pain, swelling, and tenderness over the front of the knee. Severity varies; some experience mild discomfort, while others experience significant limitations in their daily activities and athletic performance.
What Causes Prepatellar Bursitis?
Several factors contribute to the development of prepatellar bursitis:
- Repetitive kneeling: This is a primary cause, particularly in occupations or sports involving frequent kneeling.
- Direct trauma: A single, forceful blow to the knee can also cause inflammation.
- Infection: In some cases, a bacterial infection can lead to septic bursitis, a more severe form of the condition.
- Underlying medical conditions: Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or gout can predispose individuals to bursitis.
How is Prepatellar Bursitis Diagnosed?
Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination. The doctor will assess the knee for swelling, tenderness, and pain, specifically focusing on the area over the prepatellar bursa. In some cases, imaging techniques such as X-rays may be used to rule out other conditions or identify underlying causes. Aspirating (removing) fluid from the bursa for analysis can also confirm the diagnosis and rule out infection.
What are the Symptoms of Prepatellar Bursitis?
The most common symptoms include:
- Pain: This is usually localized over the front of the knee, worsening with kneeling or pressure on the affected area.
- Swelling: The knee may appear visibly swollen and warm to the touch.
- Tenderness: The area over the bursa is typically very sensitive to palpation (touch).
- Redness: In cases of infection, the skin may appear red and inflamed.
- Limited range of motion: Severe cases may restrict knee movement.
How is Prepatellar Bursitis Treated?
Treatment for prepatellar bursitis depends on the severity and cause. Conservative management is often successful for mild cases:
- Rest: Avoiding activities that aggravate the knee is crucial.
- Ice: Applying ice packs for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, can help reduce swelling and pain.
- Compression: A compression bandage can help reduce swelling and provide support.
- Elevation: Elevating the leg can further reduce swelling.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen can help manage pain and inflammation.
- Physical therapy: A physical therapist can guide exercises to improve range of motion, strength, and flexibility.
What are the Treatment Options for Severe Cases?
In more severe or persistent cases, additional treatments may be necessary:
- Corticosteroid injections: These injections can effectively reduce inflammation and pain. However, they are not a long-term solution and may carry side effects.
- Aspiration: Removing fluid from the bursa can alleviate pressure and discomfort.
- Surgery: Surgery is rarely necessary but may be considered for chronic, recalcitrant cases that haven't responded to other treatments.
How Long Does Prepatellar Bursitis Take to Heal?
Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and the individual's response to treatment. Mild cases may resolve within a few weeks, while more severe cases may require several months to fully heal. Consistent adherence to the treatment plan is crucial for optimal recovery.
Can Prepatellar Bursitis be Prevented?
Prevention strategies focus on reducing stress on the knees:
- Using knee pads: This is particularly important for individuals engaged in activities requiring frequent kneeling.
- Proper warm-up and stretching: This helps prepare the muscles and joints for activity and reduce the risk of injury.
- Maintaining a healthy weight: Excess weight increases stress on the knees.
- Proper footwear: Supportive footwear can reduce stress on the knees.
This information is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition. A qualified sports medicine physician can provide personalized guidance based on your individual needs and circumstances.
