Knee pain is common but not all knee pain is created equal. Among potential injury and conditions knee bursitis is one that can derail your daily activities. Knee bursitis occurs when the bursae, the small fluid-filled sacs that act as cushions between your bones and soft tissues in your joint, become inflamed or irritated. This inflammation can lead to pain, swelling, and restricted movement. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll discuss the causes of knee bursitis to help you better understand this condition, how it can impact your daily life, and what you can do about it.
Repetitive Strain Injury
Knee bursitis can develop as a result of repeated strain and overuse of the joint. Activities that put repeated stress on the knee, such as running, jumping, or kneeling, can cause friction and irritation to the bursa, leading to inflammation. Those who have jobs that require kneeling, such as carpet installers, gardeners, or plumbers, are particularly susceptible to knee bursitis.
Direct Injury
Another common cause of knee bursitis is a direct injury to the knee. This can happen in contact sports or as a result of a fall or accident. When the knee sustains an impact, the bursa can become injured, inflamed, and swollen. This type of injury is more likely to cause a sudden onset of knee bursitis symptoms.
Arthritis
Knee bursitis can also be a symptom of underlying joint conditions like arthritis. Arthritis affects the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones, causing them to rub against each other. This can lead to inflammation of the bursa between the bones and soft tissue, causing knee bursitis symptoms.
Infection
In rare cases, an infection in the knee can cause knee bursitis. This type of knee bursitis is known as septic bursitis and can be caused by bacteria that enter the bursa through a wound or surgical procedure. Symptoms of septic bursitis include redness, warmth, and tenderness in the knee, as well as fever and chills.
Obesity
Obesity can cause knee bursitis as it increases stress on the knee joint. The additional weight puts more pressure on the joint, leading to more wear and tear on the bursae. This can cause knee bursitis or exacerbate an existing case.
In conclusion, knee bursitis can have a significant impact on your daily life, but identifying the cause can provide insight into the best treatment options. If you suspect you have knee bursitis, seek out a professional diagnosis from a physiotherapist or chiropractor. You can also take preventive measures by avoiding repetitive or high-stress activities that put pressure on your knees. Maintaining a healthy weight, practicing good posture, and stretching regularly can also help prevent knee bursitis. Remember, if you experience knee pain and swelling, seek professional advice to help you get back on your feet.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapist at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
