Abstract

A small wave or bulge on the medial aspect of the knee just inferior to the patella suggests an effusion. After assessing for warmth, bony tenderness, masses, and effusion, the clinician should palpate for areas of tenderness. Anteriorly, such palpation addresses the patella facets. To assess the patella, the clinician displaces the patella laterally and medially and palpates the facets on the under surface of the patella. Tenderness at the inferior pole of the patella may suggest apophysitis. Further, the clinician should palpate the quadriceps and patellar tendon and the tibial tubercle.