Knee Bursitis

Knee bursitis can be frustrating and painful, especially for people who spend a lot of time kneeling or doing physical work. Our team can help ease your discomfort and get you back to your daily activities with less pain.

Knee Bursitis

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Introduction

Knee bursitis occurs when one of the small, fluid-filled sacs around the knee, called bursae, becomes irritated or inflamed. These bursae act as cushions that help reduce friction between bones, tendons, and skin. When they become swollen, the area can feel painful, tender, or warm to the touch. Knee bursitis is common and can usually be managed with simple treatments.

How Does Bursitis Happen?

Bursitis is often caused by repeated pressure or overuse of the knee, such as kneeling for long periods, frequent bending, or certain athletic activities. It can also result from a direct hit to the knee, infection (rarely), or underlying conditions like arthritis. When the bursa becomes irritated, it fills with extra fluid, leading to swelling and discomfort.

How Do I Know if I Have Knee Bursitis?

Common signs of knee bursitis include:

Swelling on the front, inside, or back of the knee
Pain when kneeling, bending, or applying pressure to the knee
Warmth or redness over the swollen area
Stiffness or discomfort with movement
Tenderness to touch at the affected spot

A medical evaluation, often a physical exam and sometimes imaging or fluid tests, can confirm the diagnosis.

Treatments for Knee Bursitis

Most cases improve with conservative care, such as:

Rest and avoiding activities that irritate the knee
Ice and compression to reduce swelling
Anti-inflammatory medications as recommended by your provider
Physical therapy to improve flexibility and reduce strain on the knee
Protective pads or braces to reduce pressure during activities
Corticosteroid injections, which may be used for persistent inflammation

In rare cases, such as infection or severe, recurring bursitis, additional procedures or drainage may be needed.

References

Aaron DL, Patel A, Kayiaros S, Calfee R. Four Common Types of Bursitis: Diagnosis and Management. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2011;19(6):359-367. doi:10.5435/00124635-201106000-00006.

Brown OS, Smith TO, Parsons T, Benjamin M, Hing CB. Management of Septic and Aseptic Prepatellar Bursitis: A Systematic Review. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg. 2022;142(10):2445-2457. doi:10.1007/s00402-021-03853-9.

Baumbach SF, Lobo CM, Badyine I, Mutschler W, Kanz KG. Prepatellar and Olecranon Bursitis: Literature Review and Development of a Treatment Algorithm. Arch Orthop Trauma Surg. 2014;134(3):359-370. doi:10.1007/s00402-013-1882-7.