Prepatellar Bursitis

Prepatellar bursitis is inflammation of the bursa in front of the kneecap, often from repeated kneeling.

This page covers causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, medications, surgical approaches, and recovery guidance related to prepatellar bursitis.

Quick Facts

Focus	Details
Condition Type	Overuse
Common Symptoms	Swelling over the kneecap, Tenderness, Pain with kneeling
Typical Diagnosis	Physical exam and history, Imaging if symptoms persist
Common Treatments	Avoid kneeling, Ice and compression, Protective padding, NSAIDs

Causes and Risk Factors

Causes

Repetitive loading or training errors
Biomechanical imbalance

Risk Factors

Sudden increase in activity
Poor footwear or technique
Muscle weakness or tightness

Symptoms and Signs

Swelling over the kneecap
Tenderness
Pain with kneeling

Diagnosis

Physical exam and history
Imaging if symptoms persist

Treatment Overview

Focus	Details
Non-Surgical Care	Avoid kneeling, Ice and compression, Protective padding
Medications	NSAIDs
Injections	Aspiration or corticosteroid injection in select cases
Surgical Options	Rarely needed; reserved for refractory cases

Self-Care and Recovery

Gradual return to activity
Strength and flexibility maintenance

Possible Complications

Chronic pain if not addressed

FAQs

What is Prepatellar Bursitis?

Prepatellar bursitis is inflammation of the bursa in front of the kneecap, often from repeated kneeling.

What symptoms are common?

Swelling over the kneecap, Tenderness, Pain with kneeling.

How is it diagnosed?

Physical exam and history, Imaging if symptoms persist.

What treatments are used?

Avoid kneeling, Ice and compression, Protective padding, NSAIDs, Rarely needed; reserved for refractory cases.

When should I seek care?

Seek care for severe pain, swelling, fever, or inability to bear weight, or if symptoms persist despite self-care.