Knee Bursitis
Knee bursitis is inflammation of a bursa—a small fluid-filled sac that cushions the knee joint. Learn about types, symptoms, and effective treatments.
What is Knee Bursitis?
Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that reduce friction and cushion pressure points between bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. The knee has several bursae, and any of them can become inflamed.
Knee bursitis can result from prolonged kneeling, a direct blow to the knee, overuse, infection, or conditions like gout or rheumatoid arthritis. While bursitis can be painful and limit mobility, it usually responds well to treatment.
Types of Knee Bursitis
Prepatellar Bursitis
Swelling in front of the kneecap. Common in people who kneel frequently ("housemaid's knee" or "carpenter's knee").
Location: Front of kneecap
Infrapatellar Bursitis
Affects the bursa below the kneecap. Often seen in jumpers and runners.
Location: Below kneecap
Pes Anserine Bursitis
Inflammation of the bursa on the inner side of the knee below the joint. Common in runners and overweight individuals.
Location: Inner knee below joint
Symptoms
- Swelling over or around the knee
- Warmth and tenderness in the affected area
- Pain that worsens with movement or pressure
- Stiffness and difficulty bending the knee
- Redness over the swollen area
- Pain when kneeling (prepatellar bursitis)
Warning: Septic Bursitis
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- • Fever or chills
- • Significant redness spreading around the knee
- • Severe pain with any movement
- • Break in the skin over the swollen area
These may indicate infected (septic) bursitis, which requires urgent treatment with antibiotics.
Treatment Options
Most cases of non-infected bursitis resolve with conservative treatment.
Rest & Ice
Reducing activity and applying ice to decrease swelling
Compression & Elevation
Wrapping the knee and elevating to reduce swelling
NSAIDs
Anti-inflammatory medications for pain and swelling
Aspiration
Draining excess fluid if significant swelling is present
Corticosteroid Injection
For persistent cases not responding to other treatments
Antibiotics
Required if bursitis is caused by infection (septic bursitis)
Prevention Tips
- • Use knee pads when kneeling for extended periods
- • Take regular breaks during repetitive activities
- • Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on knees
- • Stretch and warm up before exercise
- • Address any underlying conditions that may contribute
Related Conditions
Get relief from knee bursitis
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Hunter to discuss your knee bursitis and determine the best treatment approach.