Housemaid's Knee

Housemaids Knee is caused by the swelling and inflammation of the fluid filled sac (bursa) at the front of the knee. The function of the bursa is to help reduce friction between the bone and soft tissue, and to allow maximum range of movement at a joint. When there is inflammation in a bursa, it swells due to an increase in the amount of fluid in the bursa sac.

There are a number of different causes of housemaids knee:
- Prolonged and/or repetitive kneeling (common in tradesmen)
- A fall or direct blow to the knee
- Infection (occasional)
- Another inflammatory disease (such as rheumatoid arthritis)

Housemaids knee causes pain and swelling of the affected knee (as demonstrated in the image below). There may be redness of the skin, and you may find it difficult to bend the leg, kneel down, or walk.

Most cases of housemaids knee will settle within a few weeks with supportive treatment and often do not require surgery. The following pointers will help to relieve symptoms:
- Rest the knee - avoid aggravating activities
- Use ice on the knee
- Use knee pads or gel cushions when kneeling
- Stretching - particularly of the quads
- Anti-inflammatory medication - may help with the swelling