Knee bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa, a small fluid-filled sac that acts like a cushion to reduce friction between the bones, tendons, and muscles of the knee joint.
This condition can be triggered by falls or direct trauma to the knee, repeated stress from physical activity, or infections in the bursa. Symptoms usually include tenderness, pain, and swelling in the affected knee.
Treatment for knee bursitis generally involves rest, anti-inflammatory medication prescribed by an orthopedic doctor, and physical therapy with exercises guided by a physical therapist.
Main symptoms
The most common symptoms of knee bursitis include:
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Tenderness in the affected knee
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Swelling in the knee
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Warmth around the joint
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Pain when moving or pressing the knee
If these symptoms appear, it is important to see an orthopedic doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
How to confirm a diagnosis
An orthopedic doctor usually diagnoses knee bursitis by assessing symptoms and performing a physical exam. This may involve gently pressing on the affected area and moving the leg to check for pain with movement.
The doctor may also order imaging tests, such as an X-ray, MRI, or ultrasound, to get a clearer view of the knee structures and determine if bursitis is linked to bone problems or arthritis.
If infection or gout is suspected, the doctor may perform fluid aspiration from the bursa for laboratory analysis.
Possible causes
Knee bursitis occurs when one of the bursae around the joint becomes inflamed. Possible causes include:
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Bacterial infection of the bursa
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Friction from repetitive physical activity
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Injuries such as falls or direct blows to the knee
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Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or gout
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Prolonged or excessive pressure on the knee
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Obesity
Spending long periods kneeling on hard surfaces or practicing sports with frequent falls onto the knees can also lead to bursitis.
Treatment options
Treatment for knee bursitis aims to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms. An orthopedic doctor may recommend:
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Resting the joint
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Elevating the knee whenever possible
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Using an elastic bandage for compression
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Applying ice packs to the affected area
If needed, the doctor may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen. In cases of infection, antibiotics may be prescribed. Corticosteroid injections or aspiration of excess fluid from the bursa may also be used to reduce inflammation.
In rare situations where bursitis does not respond to other treatments, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected bursa.
Physical therapy is often recommended, as it helps decrease inflammation, relieve pain, and reduce strain on the bursae through targeted exercises.
Exercises for knee bursitis
Improving flexibility in the knee can support both treatment and prevention of knee bursitis. Helpful exercises include:
1. Leg stretch
Lie on your back with the unaffected leg extended on the floor. Raise the affected leg straight up using an elastic band or belt for support. Hold for 15 to 30 seconds, then lower the leg. Repeat 3 times.
Alternatively, you can lie near an open doorway with the unaffected leg on the floor and raise the affected leg against the wall next to the door frame.
2. Calf stretch
Stand facing a wall with your hands at eye level and arms extended. Place the leg with bursitis stretched back, keeping the foot and heel flat on the floor, and bend the other leg slightly forward. Lean gently toward the wall until you feel the calf of the affected leg stretch. Hold for 15 to 30 seconds, return to the starting position, and repeat 3 times.
3. Quadriceps stretch
Stand facing or sideways to a wall, looking forward. Place one hand on the wall for support. Bend the affected leg backward, holding the ankle with the opposite hand, and pull the heel toward the buttocks while keeping the knees together. Avoid arching your back. Hold for 15 to 30 seconds and repeat 3 times.