Patellar alteration - Anterior knee pain

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The patella is the flat, round bone that can be felt in the anterior part of the knee. It articulates with the femur and comprises the tendon of the quadriceps muscle of the leg.

When there is an alteration in any of these three structures (tendon, patella, femur), there is a continuous pain in the anterior part of the knee and a rubbing sensation when bending the knee.

The diagnosis is based off of a correct physical examination and imaging testing such as an X-ray or a knee ultrasound.

The treatment must correct the cause of its onset to avoid elongating the symptoms. The pain and inflammation will be managed with analgesics and anti-inflammatory medication. Hot and cold therapy can favour the recovering process.

If the described symptomatology is present, the recommendation is to visit the traumatologist to confirm the diagnosis and start early treatment.

Bibliographic references
  1. Bruce C Anderson, MD. General evaluation of the adult with knee pain. UpToDate. Apr 18, 2016.
  2. Anthony Beutler, MD. Karl B Fields, MD. Approach to the athlete or active adult with knee pain. UpToDate. Nov 30, 2015.
  3. Niva MH, Kiuru MJ, Haataja R, Pihlajamäki HK. Bone stress injuries causing exercise-induced knee pain. Am J Sports Med 2006; 34:78.
  4. Stiell IG, Greenberg GH, Wells GA, et al. Derivation of a decision rule for the use of radiography in acute knee injuries. Ann Emerg Med 1995; 26:405.
  5. Cush JJ. Valoración de los trastornos articulares y musculoesqueléticos. Harrison. Principios de Medicina Interna. Volumen 2. 19º Edición: 2221-2222 i 2230.
Author
Dr. Sara Vitoria
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Kneecap pain


    Knee pain increase when pressing on the kneecap


    Kneecap rubs against the femur when bending the knee


    Knee pain increase while remaining seated


    Pain at the front of the knee increases when going down the stairs

Symptoms to watch out for

Pain that doesn't subside with analgesics
Fever (temperature higher than 38 ºC)

Self-care

Consume over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatories.
Apply local cold in the area of the lesion 3 times a day to reduce inflammation.
Engage in regular physical activity, adapted to age and physical condition, at least 3 times a week.