Knee Bursitis

Knee bursitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the bursae in the knee joint. The bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints and reduce friction between bones, tendons, and muscles.

Causes and Risk Factors

Knee bursitis can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Repetitive motion or overuse of the knee joint
• Direct blows to the knee
• Infection
• Rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory conditions
• Poor posture or biomechanics

Symptoms

The symptoms of knee bursitis may include:

• Pain and swelling in the affected area
• Redness and warmth around the knee joint
• Limited mobility or stiffness in the knee
• Swollen bursae that can feel like a soft lump under the skin

Types of Knee Bursitis

There are several types of knee bursitis, including:

• Prepatellar bursitis (housemaid's knee): affects the bursae in front of the kneecap
• Infrapatellar bursitis: affects the bursae below the kneecap
• Pes anserine bursitis: affects the bursae on the inner side of the knee, about 2-3 inches below the kneecap

Diagnosis and Treatment

Knee bursitis can be diagnosed through a physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans. Treatment options may include:

• Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) to reduce pain and inflammation
• Physical therapy to improve range of motion and strength
• Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or antibiotics if an infection is present
• Drainage of the bursae through aspiration or surgical incision and drainage
• Surgery to remove the inflamed bursae in severe cases

Prevention

To prevent knee bursitis, it is recommended to:

• Wear protective gear such as knee pads when engaging in activities that involve kneeling or direct blows to the knee
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the knee joint
• Engage in regular exercise to strengthen the muscles around the knee
• Avoid repetitive motions or overuse of the knee joint