Kneecap Bursitis - aka Patellar Bursitis | Studio Podiatry | Podiatrist & Orthotics | Camp Hill, Brisbane 4152

Kneecap Bursitis – aka Patellar Bursitis

Kneecap Bursitis - aka Patellar Bursitis

What is it?

Knee bursitis causes pains above, on top of and below the kneecap (patella), depending on which bursa is affected.

A bursa is a small fluid filled sac that helps reduce friction in joints as they allow tendons, muscle and skin to glide over bony surfaces. When placed under repetitive load, they can become inflamed. This is known as bursitis. 

What are the symptoms?

  • Pain and stiffness when moving the knee 
  • Redness/heat coming from the site of the bursa 
  • Swelling above, on or below the kneecap 
  • Difficulty walking

Why did I get it?

Knee bursitis is most commonly seen in the active middle aged population, affecting women more than men.

Patients with the condition can often present with several of the following risk factors: 

  • Direct trauma
  • Frequent falls 
  • Constant, prolonged pressure over the knee joint (i.e. kneeling) 
  • Overuse 
  • Poor biomechanics
  • Knee arthritis

How is it diagnosed?

A detailed history and clinical examination is usually sufficient for the diagnosis of Bursitis. Sometimes you may be referred for diagnostic imaging for confirmation and to rule out further pathology.

How can I treat it?

The quickest path to being pain free is to pay a visit to your Podiatrist for them to help you develop a treatment plan. 

Below are some treatment strategies which may be implemented by your Podiatrist:

  • Rest and ice
  • Padding/strapping
  • Anti-inflammatories 
  • Footwear advice 
  • Stretching/ strengthening program 
  • Custom orthotics
  • Biomechanical correction 
  • Corticosteroid injection- often used as the last resort for non-responsive cases

Need help to resolve your Knee Bursitis?

Book your appointment with one of our podiatrists now!

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