Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Pre Patellar Bursitis
What is Pre-Patellar Bursitis?
Between the kneecap (patella) and the skin that covers it lies a small fluid-filled sac called the pre-patellar bursa. Its role is to reduce friction and allow smooth movement between tissues. Pre-patellar bursitis, also known as “housemaid’s knee”, occurs when this bursa becomes inflamed and swollen, leading to pain, tenderness, and discomfort at the front of the knee. Fortunately, physiotherapy is highly effective in managing and treating this condition, helping to reduce pain and restore normal function.
How does Pre-Patellar Bursitis happen?
Pre-patellar bursitis develops when the bursa becomes irritated or injured. A direct fall or blow to the knee can damage tiny blood vessels inside the bursa, causing bleeding, inflammation, and swelling. In many cases, it can also be the result of repeated minor trauma, such as frequent kneeling on hard surfaces. Over time, this repeated stress leads to microtrauma, thickening of the bursa, and eventual inflammation.
What are the symptoms of Pre-Patellar Bursitis?
Pre-patellar bursitis typically causes pain and swelling at the front of the kneecap, which is often worse when kneeling. The affected knee may feel stiff or tender to touch. Other symptoms can include:
- Reduced range of movement
- Muscle weakness around the knee
- Balance difficulties
- Changes in walking pattern (gait problems)
What should I do if I have Pre-Patellar Bursitis?
If you suspect pre-patellar bursitis, you should book a physiotherapy appointment for assessment and treatment. In the meantime, following the RICE regime (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) can help to reduce pain and swelling. Early management will prevent the condition from worsening and support a faster recovery.
What shouldn’t I do if I have Pre-Patellar Bursitis?
In the first 48 hours after injury, avoid anything that increases blood flow to the knee, as this can make swelling worse. This includes:
- Hot showers
- Heat rubs or massage
- Alcohol consumption
- Excessive physical activity
You should also avoid kneeling wherever possible, as this directly irritates the bursa and may delay healing.
Physiotherapy Treatment for Pre-Patellar Bursitis
Physiotherapy plays a vital role in the recovery from pre-patellar bursitis. If your condition is the result of a single injury, your physiotherapist will first assess the extent of the damage to the bursa and ensure that no surrounding structures (such as ligaments or tendons) are affected before starting treatment. If your bursitis has developed gradually due to repeated minor trauma, your physiotherapist will identify the underlying causes—such as frequent kneeling or poor movement patterns—and design a plan to encourage healing while reducing pain and swelling.
In some cases, your physiotherapist may recommend further medical management, including:
- Aspiration (drainage) of fluid from the bursa
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Corticosteroid injections directly into the bursa to relieve pain and inflammation
Alongside these, physiotherapy uses a range of evidence-based techniques to restore normal function, including:
- Exercise programmes to improve strength, flexibility, and support around the knee
- Electrotherapy to reduce pain and swelling
- Taping techniques to offload stress on the bursa
- Hydrotherapy for gentle, low-impact rehabilitation
A personalised physiotherapy programme will not only treat your current bursitis but also help prevent flare-ups in the future by addressing the underlying causes.
To arrange a physiotherapy assessment for fat pad impingement, please call Ace Physiotherapy & Sports on +65 8153 5374 or book online today.
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