Overview

Knee bursitis is a painful condition that occurs when one of the bursae around the knee becomes inflamed. Bursae are small, fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones, tendons, and muscles near joints. Knee bursitis commonly develops due to repetitive pressure, prolonged kneeling, injury, or infection, and it can affect people of all ages.

Symptoms

Symptoms of knee bursitis depend on which bursa is affected and the severity of inflammation.

Common symptoms include:

  • Swelling over the front or side of the knee

  • Knee pain that worsens with movement or pressure

  • Warmth and redness over the affected area

  • Stiffness or limited knee movement

  • Increased pain after prolonged kneeling or activity

  • Fever in cases of infection

Causes

Knee bursitis occurs when a bursa becomes irritated or inflamed due to repeated stress or injury.

Common causes include:

  • Frequent kneeling on hard surfaces

  • Direct trauma or injury to the knee

  • Repetitive knee movements

  • Bacterial infection of the bursa

  • Inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout

Risk Factors

Certain factors increase the risk of developing knee bursitis.

Risk factors include:

  • Occupations involving frequent kneeling, such as carpentry or plumbing

  • Sports that place stress on the knee

  • Previous knee injury

  • Obesity

  • Chronic inflammatory joint diseases

  • Older age

Complications

Most cases of knee bursitis resolve with appropriate treatment, but complications may occur if the condition is neglected.

Possible complications include:

  • Chronic or recurring knee bursitis

  • Infection spreading to nearby tissues

  • Reduced mobility or stiffness

  • Persistent knee pain affecting daily activities

Prevention

Knee bursitis can often be prevented by reducing stress on the knee and maintaining joint health.

Preventive measures include:

  • Using knee pads when kneeling

  • Avoiding prolonged pressure on the knees

  • Maintaining a healthy body weight

  • Strengthening and stretching leg muscles

  • Treating minor knee injuries promptly

  • Keeping the knee area clean to reduce infection risk

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