Bursa is Swollen and irritable. Need a brace recomended

My Brusa sack on top of the knee cap is swollen again for me. However its swollen more towards the left of the knee rather then the center. About 3 years ago My bursa swelled up due to constant friction of the knee rubbing againts a wrestling gym mat. It was swollen and very irritable/stinging to the touch. The bursa eventually popped and I had to get my knee drained.

Right now the Bursa just seems to be swollen. IT feels like the same type of pain from before, but for some reason most of the swelling leans towards the left side of my knee cap. I am also wondering would a patella support strap/brace be good for this injury?

[Michael L Gross, MD]

Pre-patella bursitis or "housemaid's knee" is quite common in laborers who work on their knees such as carpet installers or tile men. It is also common in wrestlers, as you've already found out.  This ailment is an irritation of the bursa in front of the kneecap (patella) and results in a collection of fluid within the bursa, and thickening of the bursal tissue itself.  

These are often treated with ice and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication.  In addition, the bursa can be drained with a syringe and needle.  At the same time, cortisone can be injected in the bursa.  As a last resort, surgery can be performed to remove the bursa.

Problems can arise if the bursa gets infected. If this happens, there is a dramatic increase in pain, swelling, redness, and a fever.  If this occurs, immediate medical attention is required and antibiotics are started as soon as possible.  If antibiotics by mouth are not enough, hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics are required.

As far as a brace, sometimes a neoprene sleeve is helpful to provide compression and control swelling.  Another useful item is a donut type knee pad to take pressure off the bursa when you are on your knees and distribute the pressure away to the sides of your knee.

[FrailThlete]

how do you post a pic to?

[FrailThlete]

Ok thank you Dr. Gross.

I went to mixed martial arts practice last night wearing a neoprene sleeve. It relieved a lot of pressure and my knee felt more stable, however I'm pretty sure the Bursa poped because the swollen stiffness now has a squishy feeling and became less painful.

I remember before my docter a few years back told me not to wear a sleeve when there was fluid floating around in my knee because the compression will cause more fluid to occur. What should i do for my knee next?

Also my Quadracept tendon above the knee cap is inflamed. Is that related to the Bursitis? I'm guessing its Tendonitis. Should I take a cordisone needle for that?

[Michael L Gross, MD]

I dont think the sleeve is going to cause any damage.  At this point, ice would be useful, 20 minutes sever times a day.  If the problems persist more than several days, or if there are any signs of infection, then its time to see a doctor.