Hoffa Fat Pad Impingement Treatment in London

Understanding Hoffa Fat Pad Impingement

Hoffa's fat pad, also known as the infrapatellar fat pad, is a soft tissue structure located beneath the kneecap (patella). It serves as a cushion between the patella and the femur, helping to reduce friction and absorb shock during movement. However, when this fatty tissue becomes irritated or compressed, it can lead to Hoffa fat pad impingement, a condition that causes anterior knee pain and restricts mobility.

If you are experiencing persistent anterior knee pain, consulting a specialist is essential. At The West London Knee and Hip Clinic, our expert team, led by Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Dr Arjuna Imbuldeniya, offers comprehensive assessment and personalised treatment options to help alleviate pain and restore function.

Signs and Symptoms of Hoffa Fat Pad Impingement

Recognising the signs and symptoms of Hoffa fat pad impingement early can prevent further complications. Common symptoms include:

Pain:

A sharp or aching pain in the front of the knee, particularly below the kneecap, which worsens with activities that require full knee extension, prolonged standing, or kneeling.

Swelling:

Visible or palpable swelling around the bottom of the kneecap due to inflammation of the fat pad.

Restricted Movement:

Difficulty in fully straightening or bending the knee, often accompanied by a catching or locking sensation.

Pain Aggravated by Activity:

Symptoms worsen during activities such as walking downstairs, squatting, or playing sports that require repetitive knee movements.

Treatment Options for Hoffa Fat Pad Impingement

Effective Hoffa fat pad impingement treatment in London includes a combination of non-surgical and, if necessary, surgical interventions to relieve pain and improve mobility.

Conservative Treatments

Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that cause pain, such as deep knee bends and prolonged standing, to reduce irritation of the fat pad.

Physical Therapy: Engaging in targeted physical therapy exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee joint, improve patella alignment, and prevent overextension of the knee.

Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and inflammation, but should only be used under medical guidance.

Injections: Corticosteroid injections may provide temporary relief by reducing inflammation within the fat pad.

Bracing or Taping: Using knee braces or taping techniques to offload pressure from the infrapatellar fat pad and support knee alignment.

Surgical Intervention

If conservative measures do not provide adequate relief, surgical options may be recommended:

Arthroscopic Debridement: A minimally invasive procedure where small instruments are used to remove the inflamed portion of the fat pad, alleviating impingement and pain.

Fat Pad Resection: In cases of severe impingement, partial removal of the infrapatellar fat pad may be considered to relieve chronic symptoms.

At The West London Knee and Hip Clinic, we prioritise conservative treatments and only consider surgery when absolutely necessary. Each patient receives a personalised treatment plan to ensure the best possible outcome.

Why Choose The West London Knee and Hip Clinic?

Founded by Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon Dr Arjuna Imbuldeniya, The West London Knee and Hip Clinic is dedicated to providing high-quality, patient-centred care. Serving patients across West London, Central London, Windsor, Surrey, Middlesex, Essex, and Kent, our clinic is built on three core principles:

Innovation: We utilise the latest advancements in knee treatments, including Arthrosamid hydrogel, PRP therapy, hyaluronic gel, biological cartilage repair, robotic-assisted surgery, and muscle-preserving hip replacement procedures.

Compassion: We believe in delivering care with empathy, ensuring each patient receives the attention and respect they deserve.

Excellence: Dr Imbuldeniya and our team have trained at world-renowned institutions in London, Sydney, Barcelona, and Munich, bringing expertise and the highest standards of care to our patients.

Book an Appointment with a Hoffa Fat Pad Specialist in London

If you are suffering from knee pain and suspect Hoffa fat pad impingement, early diagnosis and treatment can prevent long-term complications. Contact The West London Knee and Hip Clinic today to book an appointment with a leading knee specialist and take the first step towards recovery.