Definition:
Bursitis of the knee is a condition characterized by inflammation of a bursa (tiny fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between moving parts of the knee) located near the knee joint.
Diagnosis:
The first step in knee bursitis diagnosis is to determine the cause of the knee pain. Questions associated with the specific location or severity and frequency of the pain may be asked during checkup. The knee will be inspected and symptoms noted. For a more definite diagnosis, an X-ray or other imaging studies may be required.
Treatment:
Bursitis of the knee can be treated with a combination of self-care remedies and doctor-administered methods to manage pain and reduce the inflammation. If the patient is resistant to self-care measures and the symptoms are particularly severe, the following interventions may be necessitated: corticosteroid injection; aspiration; antibiotics; physical therapy; and in rare occasions, a surgical procedure known as bursectomy, or surgical removal of a bursa.
Symptoms and Signs:
Bursitis of the knee typically begins slowly, and may gradually worsen over time if left untreated. Common symptoms of knee bursitis include: warmth in affected area; swelling or squishy texture of affected knee; as well as pain and tenderness when pressure is applied on the knee.
Causes:
Bursitis of the knee occurs when one or more of the eleven bursae located in the knees become inflamed. It is commonly caused by frequent and sustained pressure on the affected bursa. Other possible causes of knee bursitis include: trauma or severe blow to the knee; direct trauma causing internal bleeding into a bursa; frequent falls on the knee; bacterial infections of the bursa; as well as complications resulting from rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or gout.
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