Here is a clear and comprehensive overview of what patients and caregivers need to know about Diseases and Disorders of the Patella (Kneecap):
What is the Patella?
The patella, or kneecap, is a small, flat, triangular bone located in front of the knee joint. It protects the knee and improves the leverage of the thigh muscles when straightening the leg.
Common Patellar Disorders
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)
- Also known as: Runner’s knee
- Symptoms: Dull, aching pain around the front of the knee, worsens with activity, squatting, or sitting for long periods.
- Causes: Overuse, muscle imbalances, poor alignment, improper footwear.
Chondromalacia Patellae
- What it is: Softening and breakdown of cartilage on the underside of the patella.
- Symptoms: Pain behind the kneecap, grinding or clicking with movement.
- Often seen in: Young athletes or people with misaligned kneecaps.
Patellar Tendinitis (Jumper’s Knee)
- Inflammation of: The patellar tendon (connects kneecap to shinbone).
- Symptoms: Pain and tenderness just below the kneecap.
- Causes: Repetitive jumping, running, or abrupt starts/stops.
Patellar Instability / Dislocation
- Dislocation: The patella moves out of its normal position.
- Instability: Feeling like the kneecap may slip out of place.
- More common in: Teens, people with shallow knee grooves, or ligament laxity.
Osteoarthritis of the Patellofemoral Joint
- Degeneration: Of cartilage under the kneecap.
- Symptoms: Pain, stiffness, grinding during movement, swelling.
- Typically affects: Older adults or those with prior injuries.
Prepatellar Bursitis (“Housemaid’s Knee”)
- Inflammation: Of the bursa in front of the patella.
- Caused by: Prolonged kneeling, trauma, or infection.
- Symptoms: Swelling and tenderness over the kneecap.
Diagnosis
- Physical exam
- X-rays or MRI to assess bone alignment or cartilage damage
- CT scan (in complex cases)
- Arthroscopy (minimally invasive surgery to look inside the joint)
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical
- Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation (RICE)
- Physical therapy for strengthening and correcting biomechanics
- Bracing or taping to stabilize the kneecap
- Pain relief: Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (like ibuprofen)
- Injections: Corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid
Surgical
- Arthroscopic surgery: Debridement or cartilage repair
- Realignment procedures: For recurrent dislocations
- Patellar tendon repair: In severe tendon injuries
Caregiver and Patient Tips
For Patients:
- Avoid overuse of the joint – build activity gradually.
- Warm up and stretch before exercise.
- Use proper footwear with good arch support.
- Maintain a healthy weight to reduce knee strain.
For Caregivers:
- Encourage compliance with physical therapy.
- Monitor for changes in swelling, mobility, or pain.
- Ensure safe movement in the home environment (non-slip rugs, grab bars).
- Provide emotional support – chronic knee issues can affect mood and independence.
When to See a Doctor
- Knee pain that doesn’t improve with rest
- Frequent buckling or giving out
- Visible deformity or swelling
- Signs of infection (fever, warmth, redness over the kneecap)
“Transforming complex healthcare concepts into clear, engaging content that educates, informs, and empowers your audience.”
Planning, Healthcare writing, English/Arabic Translation, Audits, Strategic advice, Feasibility Study, Risk management, Key messages, Brand stories, Content plans, Website strategy.
Research, User experience, Focus groups, Consultations, Advisory Groups, Conferences, Research Desk.
Content, Website content, Digital health, E-learning, Email copywriting, Patient Information, Marketing collaterals, Physician marketing, Physician interviews, Internal Communications support, Arabic English copy translation and editing.
Healthcare Content Writing, editing and translation.
Medical Writing, editing and translation Services
Health Blog Writing, editing and translation.
Healthcare SEO Content and strategy.
Medical Content Writer, editor and Translator
Health and Wellness Writing, editing and translation.
Medical Article Writing, editing and translation.
Healthcare Copywriting, copyediting and copy translation.
Health Website Content writing, edition and translation.
SEO for Healthcare Websites Strategy.
Medical Blog Writing, editing and translation Services
Health Content Creation and strategy.
Medical Marketing Content, and strategy.
Healthcare SEO Specialist.
Medical Research Writer.
Healthcare Content Strategy.
Health Articles Writing Strategy.
Medical Content Development strategy.
Healthcare Copywriter for Hire.
Patient Education Content Writing.