Knee bursitis Flashcards
What is a bursa?
A bursa is a small, fluid-filled sac that cushions and reduces friction between bones, tendons, muscles, and skin.
What is knee bursitis?
Knee bursitis is inflammation of the bursa in or around the knee, leading to swelling, pain, and restricted movement.
What causes knee bursitis?
Knee bursitis can result from a combination of mechanical, traumatic, infective, or systemic factors.
When excessive pressure is applied over time, it irritates the bursa, leading to inflammation. Give example
Example 1: Gardeners, plumbers, or carpet layers kneeling for extended periods often develop prepatellar bursitis (“housemaid’s knee”).
Example 2: Wrestlers frequently place pressure on their knees during practice or matches, making them prone to bursitis.
A sudden impact or blow can irritate the bursa, causing inflammation and swelling. Can you give example
Example 1: Falling directly onto the kneecap during a sport like football or netball.
Example 2: A hit to the inner side of the knee during a collision in rugby may lead to pes anserine bursitis.
Continuous stress on the tendons and muscles around the knee can lead to irritation of the nearby bursa. Can you give examples
Example 1: Long-distance runners may develop infrapatellar bursitis due to repetitive knee extension and flexion.
Example 2: Cyclists who overtrain or ride with improper technique may strain the bursa below the kneecap.
Poor biomechanics or misalignment can increase stress on certain areas of the knee. Give exmaple
Example 1: Flat feet or overpronation may lead to excess stress on the pes anserine bursa.
Example 2: Muscle imbalances, such as weak glutes, can cause overcompensation by other muscles, leading to bursitis.
Bacteria can enter the bursa and cause an infection, leading to swelling, warmth, and redness. Can you give example
Example 1: A small cut or scrape on the knee can allow bacteria to infect the bursa.
Example 2: Individuals with compromised immune systems are more at risk of developing septic bursitis.
Certain systemic conditions increase the likelihood of bursitis.
Example 1: Rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation that spreads to the bursa.
Example 2: Gout can lead to uric acid crystal deposits in the bursa, causing irritation and swelling.
Using incorrect form during exercise or sports can stress specific parts of the knee.
Example 1: Squatting too low or with poor posture can strain the prepatellar bursa.
Example 2: Excessive jumping during basketball or volleyball may irritate the infrapatellar bursa.
Excess body weight places additional stress on the knee joint and its surrounding structures. Give example
Individuals with obesity are prone to pes anserine bursitis due to the increased force on the inner side of the knee during movement.
Using inappropriate footwear or equipment can change movement patterns, stressing the knee bursa.
Using inappropriate footwear or equipment can change movement patterns, stressing the knee bursa.
How many bursae are there around the knee?
There are approximately 11 bursae around the knee, but the most clinically relevant ones are prepatellar, infrapatellar, pes anserine, and suprapatellar bursae.
Most common bursae affected in the knee?
Prepatellar bursa (in front of the kneecap).
Infrapatellar bursa (below the kneecap).
Pes anserine bursa (on the inner side of the knee).
Symptoms of knee bursitis?
Localised swelling around the knee.
Pain, especially during movement or pressure.
Tenderness over the bursa.
Restricted range of motion.
Gristing or gritty sensation on palpation.
