Knee Pain : What is Housemaid's Knee

Understanding Housemaid's Knee: An Interactive Guide

What is Housemaid's Knee?

Housemaid's Knee, also known as prepatellar bursitis, is a condition characterised by inflammation of a fluid filled sac (Bursa) located in front of the kneecap. The prepatellar bursa is located in front of the knee between the skin and the patella. The bursa does not affect the knee joint and the knee joint itself looks normal in prepatellar bursitis. This small fluid-filled sac helps reduce friction and cushion the knee joint.

Causes of Housemaid's Knee

Housemaid's Knee can be caused by:

• Repetitive Kneeling: Common in professions like housekeeping, gardening, decorating and carpentry.

• Direct Trauma: A sudden impact or fall on the knee.

• Infection: Bacteria entering through a cut or scratch.

• Underlying Conditions: Such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout.

Signs and symptoms

• Tenderness and swelling superficial to the kneecap.

• Reddening and localised warmth of the skin over the kneecap.

• Reduced knee movement.

• Fever, tachycardia (abnormal rapid heart rate) or signs of an infection may indicate septic bursitis.

1. Physiotherapy

• Professional Guidance: Your friendly Relive Physiotherapist can use a mixture of Manual Therapy, Machine Based Therapy and prescribed exercises to tailor the best plan for you.

• Exercises: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help improve knee function and prevent recurrence.

2. Rest and Avoidance of Aggravating Activities

• Rest: Avoid activities that put pressure on the knee.

• Knee Pads: Use protective knee pads if kneeling is unavoidable.

3. Ice Therapy

• Ice Packs: Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce swelling and pain.

4. Compression and Elevation

• Compression Bandages: Use an elastic bandage to compress the knee and reduce swelling.

• Elevation: Keep the knee elevated above heart level to minimize swelling.

5. Medications

• Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Medication such as  Ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation.

• Antibiotics: If an infection is present, antibiotics may be prescribed by a Doctor.

6. Aspiration and Injections

• Corticosteroid Injections: These can be administered to reduce severe inflammation.

• Aspiration: In some rare cases, a Doctor may need to drain excess fluid from the bursa.

HOW TO PREVENT

1. Use Proper Techniques

• Ergonomic Tools: Using tools with long handles to minimize the need for kneeling.

• Correct Posture: Maintain good posture while working to reduce strain on your knees.

2. Modify Your Environment

• Soft Surfaces: Work on softer surfaces whenever possible. Use mats or cushions to reduce pressure on your knees when you kneel.

• Adjust Workstations: Ensure that your workstations are at a comfortable height to avoid unnecessary kneeling.

3. Wear Appropriate Footwear

• Supportive Shoes: Wear shoes with good arch support and cushioning to reduce impact on your knees.

4. Regular Check-Ups

• Medical Check-Ups: Regularly visit your Physiotherapist to monitor knee health and address any issues early.

5. Warm-Up and Stretch

• Warm-Up: Before doing activities that involve kneeling, do a proper warm-up to prepare your muscles and joints.

• Stretching: Incorporate stretching exercises into your routine to maintain flexibility and reduce the risk of injury.

6. Strength Training

• Leg Exercises: Strengthen the muscles around your knees, such as the quadriceps and hamstrings, to provide better support.

• Core Strength: A strong core can help improve overall body mechanics and reduce knee strain.

If you are suffering from Knee Pain, then your first call should be to Chester’s Premium Knee Pain Clinic, Relive Physiotherapy.  Once your Physiotherapist has examined your knee, they will make a recommendation as to the treatment plan to follow.  Using the most up to date techniques and treatments like Ultrasound, Shockwave Therapy, Injection Therapy and Acupuncture, we will get you back to normal in no time at all!