Bursitis is a condition that causes inflammation of the bursa, which is a small sac of fluid that cushions and lubricates a joint. Bursitis often occurs in the shoulder, elbow, hip, or knee. Common causes of bursitis in the knee include prolonged kneeling, overuse or strenuous activities, a direct blow to the knee, or complications from arthritis, which causes bursae to become irritated and swell.
Knee bursitis is painful, even while at rest. It is, however, a very common condition treated by orthopedic doctors. Let us talk about the three ways bursitis in the knee can be treated and where to go in Bismarck to have it treated.
Treatments for Knee Bursitis
Comprehensive treatment for bursitis typically depends on the underlying cause. The three most commonly used ways to treat bursitis are:
Aspiration
Aspiration is a procedure in which a needle is inserted into the bursa to remove fluid, which helps relieve pain and inflammation. Aspiration may also be done in order to diagnose the cause of bursitis by checking for signs of infection in the fluid removed from the bursa. After the procedure, you may need to keep your knee immobilized temporarily.
Corticosteroid Injections
This involves injecting a corticosteroid medication into the bursa to reduce pain and inflammation in the knee. Each injection contains a powerful steroid and an anesthetic, which can provide immediate relief from knee bursitis symptoms. The anesthetic provides rapid relief from pain, while the steroid provides lasting relief for a few months.
Surgery
This is rarely needed but may be done if other treatments do not alleviate the symptoms or if knee bursitis recurs. Athletes who need to return to their game sooner may also be recommended surgery. Surgery to treat bursitis in the knee involves the removal of the swollen or infected bursa after which the doctor stitches the incision shut. Eventually, a new bursa will grow back normally.
In most cases, knee bursitis can resolve with at-home remedies. Rest, applying ice to the knee, and using a compression wrap can help relieve the painful symptoms of bursitis as your body heals. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers can also help. If you have knee arthritis, however, or if your bursitis is caused by an infection or injury, it has to be evaluated and treated by a doctor. If symptoms don’t improve in a matter of days, it could be a sign that you need medical intervention by an orthopedic specialist.
Knee Bursitis Treatment in Bismarck, ND
The orthopedic specialists at The Bone & Joint Center are highly experienced in treating knee bursitis. They can thoroughly examine your knee, find out what is causing the swelling of the bursa, and recommend a treatment for your condition, including personalized recommendations to help minimize the risk of bursitis returning.
At The Bone & Joint Center, we have three orthopedic surgeons who are fellowship trained in knee surgery. To schedule an appointment, call our office today at (701) 946-7400 or (866) 900-8650, or use our convenient online request form.
