Bursae are small fluid filled sacs that are found within
joints and soft tissue to cushion and help reduce friction.
Patella bursitis is inflammation of the bursa in front of
the knee. This usually occurs because of irritation, causing the bursa to
produce too much fluid, and therefore becomes swollen and painful.
Causes:
👣 Patella bursitis is very common in
individuals who spend a lot of time kneeling, e.g gardeners, carper fitters, or
plumbers
👣 Can also be referred to as “Housemaids
knee” due to historically housemaids who spent long periods kneeling when
cleaning
👣 A direct blow to the knee or fall onto
the knee
👣 Patellar bursitis is also linked with
friction and overuse
👣 Those with Rheumatoid Arthritis or Gout
are more susceptible to patella bursitis
👣 Infection
Symptoms:
👣 Knee pain
👣 Pain, swelling, tenderness in the kneecap
👣 Difficulty walking
👣 Painful to kneel
Treatment:
👣 Follow the POLICE protocol:
Protection- Rest for the first few days following injury,
however, you should then begin gentle motions to maintain movement and avoid a
decreased muscle strength and flexibility. You may require assistive devices at
this time, for example crutches.
Optimal Loading- Whilst protecting the effected area, gentle
movement should be started to help promote optimal healing of the injury and
prevent delay in returning to normal activities.
Ice- Apply ice to help manage swelling. Ice can also help
decrease some acute pain.
Compression- Compression bandaging will help reduce swelling
as a result of the inflammatory process.
Elevation- Elevating the foot above heart level will help
reduce swelling by allowing fluid to drain from the area.
👣 Pain relief medication
👣 Antibiotics maybe required
👣 If these do not help:
-
Drainage of bursa
-
Steroid injection into bursa
- Rare
cases surgery is required
How can a Podiatrist help:
👣 Biomechanical assessment to determine
cause
👣 Orthotic prescription
👣 Strengthening exercises for the knee
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