Which fat pad is most commonly affected and can lead to anterior knee pain?

The infrapatellar fat pad, also known as Hoffa's fat pad, is the structure most commonly associated with anterior knee pain. This fat pad is located beneath the kneecap and plays a crucial role in cushioning the knee joint. It can become irritated or inflamed due to a variety of factors, such as repetitive stress, trauma, or underlying knee conditions like patellar tendinopathy or patellofemoral pain syndrome.

When the infrapatellar fat pad is compromised, it can lead to symptoms of pain and discomfort in the anterior region of the knee. This is particularly significant in athletes or individuals who engage in activities that require frequent knee bending or loading. The inflammation of this fat pad can also cause pain during activities such as squatting or stair climbing, which adds to its role in anterior knee pain presentations.

The other fat pads mentioned, while they do exist and have their own functions, are not as frequently the primary source of anterior knee pain as the infrapatellar fat pad. The pre femoral fat pad serves to protect the quadriceps muscle and is not directly involved with anterior knee pain, while the quadriceps and suprapatellar fat pads are also less commonly associated with the typical conditions leading to anterior knee discomfort.