Is your knee uncomfortably swollen, red, warm, or tender to the touch? You may have bursitis, which develops when one or more bursae in your knee joint become painfully inflamed. Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee and help prevent its components from grinding painfully against each other during movement.

Knee bursitis can develop above, within, or below the kneecap, and it can affect any part of the knee. Regardless of the location of the inflamed bursa, knee bursitis can cause pain and limit your range of motion. In most cases, it is a temporary condition that responds well to non-surgical treatment. If you have knee pain or other symptoms of bursitis, you can consult with an orthopedic specialist at Premier Bone & Joint Centers in Torrington, Wyoming.

What Causes Knee Bursitis?

Knee bursitis can result from:

• Overuse of the knee – High-impact activities such as running and jumping, which involve repetitive use of the knees, can lead to the development of pes anserine bursitis, an inflammation of the bursa located on the upper inner part of the lower leg.
• Prolonged kneeling – Certain occupations, such as plumbing, carpentry, and landscaping, involve kneeling for extended periods, which can increase the risk of damaging the knee bursae.
• A sports-related injury – A direct blow to the knee or repeated falls onto the knee can increase the risk of developing knee bursitis.
• Obesity – Carrying excess body weight can increase the pressure on the knees, which can lead to bursitis.

When to See a Knee Specialist

The knee is a complex joint made up of bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and other tissues. An issue with any of its components may cause symptoms that mimic those of knee bursitis. A knee specialist can evaluate your condition and ensure that you receive the right diagnosis and treatment. Although knee bursitis is highly treatable and not dangerous, delaying your diagnosis and treatment may cause you unnecessary discomfort.

Knee bursitis treatment usually consists of a combination of conservative therapies. An example is the PRICE protocol, which involves protection, rest, ice applications, compression, and elevation of the knee. If needed, your physician may also prescribe a pain-relieving medication or an antibiotic if the inflamed bursa is infected. As you recover, you can perform targeted exercises to strengthen the muscles that support your injured knee. If you have chronic bursitis that does not respond to non-surgical treatment, your physician may suggest surgery.

If you have pain or swelling in your knee, reserve an appointment with a knee doctor at Premier Bone & Joint Centers in Torrington, WY. We can provide an accurate diagnosis and explain your treatment options for knee bursitis. Contact us today.