Knee Bursitis

What is Bursitis?
A bursa is a closed fluid-filled sac that functions as a gliding surface to reduce friction between tissues of the body. Bursae is plural for bursa. The major bursae are located adjacent to the tendons near the large joints, such as the shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees. When a bursa becomes inflamed, the condition is known as bursitis. Most commonly, bursitis is caused by local soft tissue trauma or strain injury.


What are Causes of Knee Bursitis?  Bursitis of the knee can occur when the bursa fills with blood from injury and overuse, such as from athletic competition.


What Are Knee Bursitis Symptoms and Signs?  Bursitis can lead to varying degrees of swelling, warmth, tenderness, and redness in the overlying area of the knee. As compared with knee joint inflammation (arthritis), it is usually only mildly painful. It is frequently associated with increased pain when kneeling and can cause stiffness and pain when walking.


Treatment of Knee Bursitis - Using the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) is usually a good bet.  If the injury doesn't heal with the RICE method, come see Dr. Tom Fletcher at Wasatc

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