Knee bursitis, “housemaid’s knee,” is a condition causing inflammation of the prepatellar bursa, a small fluid-filled sac located in front of the kneecap. Bursae serve as cushions between bones, tendons, and muscles, reducing friction and allowing the smooth movement of these structures.
Knee bursitis can result from various factors, including direct trauma, repetitive kneeling, or pressure on the knees, or even possibly from underlying medical conditions such as gout or rheumatoid arthritis.
Signs and symptoms of knee bursitis are different for each person, but typically involve the following:
- Pain: The pain may be localized to the area over the prepatellar bursa and can range from mild to moderate in intensity.
- Swelling: The prepatellar bursa may become filled with excess fluid due to inflammation, leading to visible swelling and a sense of fullness.
- Warmth and Redness: In some cases of infectious bursitis, the affected area can become tender and might appear red and feel warm to the touch due to the body’s inflammatory response.
- Visible Lump: Depending on how severe the swelling is, a visible lump might be noticeable over the front of the knee.
- Range of Motion: Swelling and discomfort can lead to restricted movement of the knee joint.
- Difficulty Kneeling: Activities that require kneeling can become painful.
- Discomfort with Movement: Any movement that involves flexing or extending the knee joint may trigger discomfort or pain.
It’s important to note that knee bursitis symptoms can vary based on the underlying cause, and severity of inflammation.
While mild cases of knee bursitis are manageable with rest and conservative measures, more severe cases could require medical evaluation and treatment.