Brief outline of knee bursitis

Knee Bursitis can be a painful condition, especially when located in the weight-bearing knee joint. The job of the bursa is to cushion and lubricate the joint, so if it becomes inflamed, pain will occur in most weight-bearing and flexion or extension activities. With three major bursae surrounding the knee there are many chances to injure one of them. The three major bursae of the knee are the prepatellar bursa, the infrapatellar bursa. and the anserine bursa.

Cause of Knee Bursitis

Repetitive pressure or trauma to the bursa. Repetitive friction between the bursa and tendon or bone.

Signs and Symptoms of Knee Bursitis

Pain and tenderness. Mild swelling, due to release of fluid in the bursal sac. Pain and stiffness when kneeling or when walking down stairs.

Complications if left knee bursitis unattended

The bursa is a fluid-filled sac that is used to lubricate and cushion the joint; if it is allowed to rupture and release the fluid, the natural cushioning will be lost. The build-up of fluid in the joint will cause loss of mobility in the joint as well.