Often known colloquially as housemaid’s knee or clergyman’s knee, bursitis of the knee is a common knee condition. The bursae can become inflamed if the tendons they are positioned beneath are over-used, they become infected or they receive a direct blow.
The prepatellar bursa is situated above the kneecap and, due to its superficial location, it can often become inflamed. Certain activities and occupations can make you more susceptible to developing prepatellar bursitis. Pes anserinus bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa beneath the hamstring tendons and is more common in athletes.
+ What are the symptoms of knee bursitis?
The joint may feel tender to touch and there is often pain and swelling. Specific movements that irritate the inflamed bursa can be especially painful.
+ How is knee bursitis diagnosed?
Mr David Houlihan-Burne will want to know what symptoms you’ve been experiencing and will perform a physical examination. If required, an ultrasound scan can confirm the diagnosis.
+ How is knee bursitis treated?
During your ultrasound examination, Mr David Houlihan-Burne may also aspirate the fluid around the joint that is the cause of the swelling. An ultrasound-guided cortisone injection can also help to relieve the pain. Surgery is rarely performed, as bursitis will usually improve with rest and anti-inflammatory medication.
17 Fitzhardinge Street
Marylebone
London
W1H 6EQ
Rickmansworth Rd
Northwood
Middx
HA6 2JW
BMI The Chiltern Hospital
London Road
Great Missenden
HP16 0EN
One Medical House
Boundary Way
Hemel Hempstead Industrial Estate
Hemel Hempstead
HP2 7YU
