BURSITIS OF THE KNEE

Knee bursitis is a condition which occurs when a bursa in the knee becomes irritated, inflamed, or infected. Bursae are small, closed, sacs which contain synovial fluid. They are located around joints and function as a gliding surface to reduce friction during joint movement and cushion the pressure points between the bones and tendons, muscles and skin near your joints.

Bursitis usually occurs when there is excessive friction over the bursa causing it to become inflamed, or when it dries out so it no longer works properly. They are found all over the body and there are approximately fourteen around the knee. Any of the bursae in your knee can become inflamed, but knee bursitis most commonly occurs over the kneecap or on the inner side of your knee below the joint. Although it is usually not infectious (aseptic bursitis), the bursa can become infected. This condition is

called septic bursitis.