Housemaid's Knee

An impact to the knee will cause the blood vessels to bleed into the bursa causing swelling and susequently an inflammation reaction in the walls of the bursa. It can also be triggered by an infection as a result of a surface injury, such as a skin wound over the kneecap. In this case, bacteria may spread into the fluid within the pre-patellar bursa causing infection.

Chronic bursitis can recur over a period of time and is a longer term problem. Repeated damage to the knee for example from kneeling or work that involves alot of pressure on the kneecap thickens the walls of the bursa causing irritation.

What are the symptoms of prepatella bursitis?

• The kneecap will be painful and tender.
• Kneecap may be swollen and warm to the touch.
• Problems kneeling.
• An abscess or fluid filled lump may be visible over the patella.
• Possibly a tender lump floating underneath the skin on the kneecap.

Useful Products:

• Cold Therapy - apply ice or cold therapy to help ease pain and swelling.

Please see the Virtual Sports Injury Clinic for more information on how to treat Housemaid's Knee