Pre-Patellar Bursitis

What is Housemaids Knee? Around the knee joint are a number of bursa or small sacs that contain fluid. They can become damaged or inflammed. The most commonly affected bursa is the pre patella bursa shown opposite. This injury can effect people who are on their knees a lot such as carpet fitters. What are the symptoms? Pain and a superficial swelling on the front of the knee cap. The swelling is different from a general swelling of the whole knee. What can the athlete do? Protect the knee with a firm compression bandage or support. If the knee is likely to be weight bearing or subject to impact then additional support in the form of a padded knee support may be required. What can a doctor do? Prescribe Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs (NSAID's) such as Ibuprofen to help reduce the inflammation. For more severe cases aspirate the bursa (suck out the fluid with a needle) and injuect with a corticosteroid agent and local anaesthetic followed bt a firm compression bandage. If the above does not work then a surgeon may operate to remove the bursa.   The information contained on this site is purely a source of information and can at no time replace the expert eye of a qualified professional. We recommend seeking professional advice before embarking on any form of self treatment. Neither the content or nor any other service provided through mybesttennis.com is intended to be relied on for medical diagnosis or treatment. Never delay in seeking professional advice because of something seen on mybesttennis.com.