Kneecap Bursitis

Kneecap Bursitis Treatment in Kansas City, MO


Kneecap bursitis, also known as prepatellar or knee bursitis, is inflammation of the bursa in and around your knee. Bursa is tiny, fluid-filled sacs that act as cushions or buffers in your knee joint. They keep your muscles, tendons, bones, and skin from rubbing together and causing excruciating pain. 

However, when these sacs or bursa get inflamed and start to swell, it puts pressure on other parts of your knee. This is extremely painful and will persist until the swelling is under control and restore the bursa to its normal size. 

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Kneecap Bursitis Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of kneecap bursitis vary depending on which of your bursa is affected. There are up to 11 bursae in and around the knee joint, and any one of them can suffer bursitis. However, here are the typical signs and symptoms that occur. 

Swelling at the front of the knee

In nearly all cases of kneecap bursitis, there will be noticeable swelling at the front of your knee. So much so that you can see and feel the swollen bursa inside your knee. 

Limited range of motion

If the swelling in your knee is bad enough, your leg will stiffen up, and you’ll have difficulty bending it. 

Pain

The pain associated with prepatellar bursitis isn’t always severe or even noticeable. Some people will feel no pain at all, while others will experience achiness and soreness of the knee from immobility or from moving it too much. It all depends on the person and the bursa that’s been affected.

Treatment Options for Kneecap Bursitis

Once it’s determined that you have kneecap bursitis, there are several treatment options at your disposal.

  • Resting to reduce stress and pressure on your knee
  • Applying ice to reduce swelling and inflammation
  • Elevating your leg to improve blood flow
  • Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling

However, depending on the severity of your condition, you may require surgery to repair your knee. Lucky for you, Ortho of KC is here to help! We offer several surgical options that vary in severity and complication, but we always recommend the path of least resistance. We want to use the least-invasive but most effective option available.

Corticosteroid injections, draining the bursa, or surgical removal of the affected bursa are all options at Ortho of KC. No matter which path you choose, we’re with you every step of the way, and our top-notch orthopedic surgeons will make sure that you have a speedy recovery.

Kneecap Bursitis Doctors

If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above, please contact Orthopedic Health of Kansas City and make an appointment with one of our Kansas City knee and leg specialists. They will perform a complete examination, diagnosing and ultimately treating any problem. From simple physical therapy to complicated surgery, you’re in good hands with Orthopedic Health of Kansas City and we will do what it takes to get you active again.