Housemaid's knee is when the prepatellar bursa (a small fluid filled sac located at the front of the kneecap) becomes inflamed. It can be caused by a direct blow or fall on the knee, or it may appear over time due to constant kneeling. In both cases, the walls of the bursa thicken due to the rupturing of blood vessels. This condition causes pain, tenderness and swelling on or just below the kneecap, making it difficult to kneel. A fluid filled bump may be visible over the kneecap.
Acute perpatellar bursitis normally goes away with the help of anti-inflammatory medicines and by applying the RICE (Rest, Ice Compression, Elevation) method. In the case of chronic housemaid's knee, kneeling should be avoided or knee pads should be worn. A doctor may need to drain some of the bursa's fluid if swelling does not subside. In serious cases surgery may have to be performed in order to remove the bursa.
Fill out this form for a FREE, Immediate, Case Evaluation
1-877-MORGAN-LAW
Guided Case Review