What is Fat Pad Impingement in the Knee?
Description:
Knee fat pad impingement, also known as Hoffa's syndrome or fat pad syndrome, is a condition characterized by irritation or compression of the infrapatellar fat pad located beneath the kneecap (patella). This condition can lead to pain, swelling, and limited knee mobility. To effectively manage knee fat pad impingement, it's essential to understand its anatomy and how it develops.
Anatomy of Knee Fat Pad Impingement:
Knee fat pad impingement involves the infrapatellar fat pad, a soft tissue structure situated beneath the patella. This pad provides cushioning and helps reduce friction between the patella and the surrounding structures, facilitating knee movement.
Development of Knee Fat Pad Impingement:
Knee fat pad impingement typically occurs due to:
Overuse or Repetitive Activities: Activities that involve frequent or excessive knee bending, such as running, jumping, or squatting, can irritate and inflame the fat pad.
Direct Trauma: A fall or impact to the front of the knee can lead to fat pad irritation.
Common Signs and Symptoms:
Common signs and symptoms of knee fat pad impingement include:
Anterior Knee Pain: Pain is typically felt beneath or just below the kneecap.
Swelling: Swelling may occur around the front of the knee.
Tenderness: The area around the patella can become tender to the touch.
Stiffness: Stiffness and limited range of motion in the knee joint.
Pain with Activities: Pain is often aggravated by activities that involve bending the knee, such as walking, climbing stairs, or kneeling.
By Charlie Molloy