Knee Bursa

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A bursa is a small, fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion and reduces friction between tissues such as muscles, tendons, and bones. The knee joint contains several bursae, which are important for smooth movement and protection of the joint. The term "knee bursa" refers to the various bursae located around the knee joint.

Here are some of the key bursae around the knee:

1. Prepatellar Bursa: This bursa is located between the skin and the patella (kneecap). It helps to reduce friction between the patella and the overlying skin and tissues. Inflammation of this bursa, a condition known as "prepatellar bursitis" or "housemaid's knee," can cause swelling and discomfort at the front of the knee.

2. Infrapatellar Bursa: Also called the "Clergyman's knee," this bursa is situated just below the patella, between the patellar tendon and the tibia (shinbone). It helps to reduce friction during knee movement. Inflammation of this bursa is referred to as "infrapatellar bursitis."

3. Suprapatellar Bursa: This bursa is located above the patella and is separated from the joint cavity by a fold in the synovial lining of the knee joint. It allows the quadriceps tendon to move smoothly over the femur (thigh bone) during knee movement.

4. Pes Anserine Bursa: This bursa is located on the inner side of the knee, just below the joint line. It lies between the pes anserinus tendons (the tendons of the sartorius, gracilis, and semitendinosus muscles) and the underlying tibia. Inflammation of this bursa can cause a condition known as "pes anserine bursitis."

5. Subpopliteal Bursa: This bursa is situated behind the knee joint, between the popliteus muscle and the capsule of the knee joint. It helps to reduce friction between these structures during knee movement.

Bursae can become inflamed due to various factors, such as repetitive movements, trauma, overuse, or underlying medical conditions. Bursitis refers to the inflammation of a bursa, which can lead to pain, swelling, tenderness, and limited range of motion around the affected area.

Treatment for knee bursitis typically involves rest, ice, compression, and elevation (the R.I.C.E. protocol) to alleviate inflammation and pain. In some cases, a healthcare provider might recommend anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, or even aspiration of the inflamed bursa if it's filled with excess fluid. Severe cases might require more advanced interventions, including surgical removal of the bursa.

If you suspect you have knee bursitis or any knee-related issues, it's essential to consult a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.