# What is the bursa in the knee, what causes its inflammation, and how can it be treated and prevented? Canonical page: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/ma-hiya-al-jerab-fi-al-rukba-wa-asbab-iltihabiha-wa-kayfa-yumkin-ilajaha-wal-wiqaya-minha Language: en Category: orthopedics Publisher: ClinicsJo Published: 2026-09-13T08:09:50.935Z Content updated: 2026-09-13T08:09:50.935Z Translation (ar): https://clinicsjo.com/ar/faq/ma-hiya-al-jerab-fi-al-rukba-wa-asbab-iltihabiha-wa-kayfa-yumkin-ilajaha-wal-wiqaya-minha A bursa is a small fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones and other moving parts such as muscles, tendons, or skin. In the knee, there are several bursae, the most well-known being the prepatellar bursa, which is located in front of the kneecap (patella). Bursitis occurs when this sac becomes inflamed and swollen, causing pain and limiting movement. Knee bursitis is sometimes known as "housemaid's knee" due to its association with prolonged pressure on the knee. ## Causes of Knee Bursitis Knee bursitis is often caused by overuse of the joint or trauma. Common causes include: - **Repetitive and prolonged pressure:** Kneeling on hard surfaces for long periods can lead to prepatellar bursitis [\[2\]](). - **Acute injury:** Inflammation may occur as a result of a direct blow or a fall on the knee [\[1\]](). - **Repetitive motions:** Activities that involve repeated bending and straightening of the knee can increase the risk of inflammation. - **Other medical conditions:** Conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or infection can contribute to bursitis [\[3\]](). - **Excess weight:** Carrying extra weight can increase pressure on joints, including the knee, which may lead to bursitis [\[3\]](). ## Symptoms of Knee Bursitis Common symptoms of knee bursitis include the following [\[3\]](): - Pain and swelling around the affected joint. - Redness and warmth in the affected area. - Pain with movement or even while resting. - Stiffness and pain when moving the affected joint. If symptoms are severe, such as sudden and intense pain, excessive swelling, or an inability to bear weight on the leg, this may indicate an acute injury requiring immediate medical evaluation [\[1\]](). ## Treatment of Knee Bursitis Treatment aims to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and restore joint function. Knee bursitis can often be treated at home using the following methods [\[1\]](): - **Rest:** Avoid activities that increase pain. - **Ice:** Apply ice to the affected area for 15 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day during the first two to three days [\[3\]](). The area should be covered with a towel before applying ice to avoid frostbite. - **Compression and elevation:** Use a compression bandage and elevate the knee to help reduce swelling. - **Medication:** Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen can be used to reduce pain and inflammation [\[3\]](). - **Physical therapy:** A doctor may recommend exercises to strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee and improve flexibility once the pain subsides [\[1\]](). - **Corticosteroid injections:** In some cases, a corticosteroid medication may be injected into the area surrounding the inflamed bursa [\[3\]](). - **Aspiration:** In rare cases, a doctor may drain excess fluid from the bursa. If an infection is suspected, the fluid may be analyzed, and you may require antibiotics [\[3\]](). - **Surgery:** In cases that do not respond to other treatments after 6 to 12 months, surgery may be necessary to repair damage or relieve pressure on the bursa [\[2\]](). It is important to consult a doctor if symptoms do not improve after 3 to 4 weeks of home treatment, or if the pain worsens [\[3\]](). You can read more about this topic on the page [Knee Bursitis: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention (Arabic)](). ## Prevention of Knee Bursitis To reduce the risk of developing knee bursitis, the following tips can be followed: - Avoid activities that involve repetitive motions or prolonged pressure on the knee as much as possible [\[3\]](). - Use knee pads when kneeling on hard surfaces. - Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the joints [\[3\]](). - Strengthening leg muscles and improving balance can help reduce the risk of injury [\[3\]](). - Avoid increasing the intensity of physical activity too quickly [\[1\]](). - Wear comfortable, supportive shoes, especially when exercising or standing for long periods [\[3\]](). ## Medical references - [Sports Injuries]() - [Bursitis]() - [Bursitis]() General health education; not a substitute for individualized clinical assessment. Citation URL: https://clinicsjo.com/en/faq/ma-hiya-al-jerab-fi-al-rukba-wa-asbab-iltihabiha-wa-kayfa-yumkin-ilajaha-wal-wiqaya-minha#answer