Knee bursitis is an inflammation of the small, fluid-filled sacs (bursae) near the knee joint. Bursae reduce friction and cushion pressure points between bones, tendons, and skin. When a bursa becomes inflamed, often due to repetitive movement, prolonged kneeling, or direct trauma, the condition is known as bursitis. This inflammation typically results in pain, noticeable swelling, and tenderness over the affected area. These symptoms can make movements like kneeling or walking difficult.
Understanding Knee Bursitis
Knee bursitis most frequently affects the prepatellar bursa (over the kneecap) or the pes anserine bursa (on the inner side of the knee). Symptoms range from gradual tenderness and warmth to rapid, localized swelling following an acute injury. The swelling is specific to the bursa and can sometimes cause a visible bulge.
The causes are often related to occupational or athletic activities involving repeated pressure or overuse of the joint. For example, prepatellar bursitis is sometimes called “housemaid’s knee” due to the frequent, prolonged kneeling required in certain professions. Underlying medical conditions, such as gout or arthritis, can also contribute to the overall inflammatory state.
The Role of Knee Braces in Managing Bursitis
A knee brace is a supportive tool focused on symptom relief, not a cure for the inflammation itself. Its primary benefit is localized compression, which helps mitigate swelling and fluid accumulation in the inflamed bursa. This gentle pressure encourages better circulation around the joint.
The brace provides support and stability, easing pain during daily movements. By stabilizing the area, it reduces friction and irritation on the tender bursa during activity. The brace also protects the area from further direct pressure or minor bumps.
Selecting and Using the Correct Brace Type
Choosing the appropriate knee support depends on the location and severity of the bursitis. For general swelling and mild pain, a simple compression knee sleeve is often suitable. These sleeves provide uniform compression to reduce edema and offer warmth without significantly restricting movement.
If the bursitis is localized, such as the pes anserine bursa, a wraparound brace with adjustable straps allows for more targeted compression. Patellar straps are typically aimed at conditions like patellar tendonitis, but they may indirectly lessen strain on adjacent bursae by altering mechanics around the kneecap. For high-impact activities or significant instability, a soft hinged brace offers stability while allowing necessary range of motion.
Wear the brace primarily during activities that aggravate the condition, not twenty-four hours a day. A brace should feel snug and secure, providing noticeable compression. It must never be so tight that it causes numbness, throbbing, or cuts off circulation. If the skin color changes or the pain intensifies while wearing the brace, the fit is incorrect and needs immediate adjustment or replacement.
Comprehensive Treatment Options Beyond Bracing
Bracing is one component of a holistic strategy to manage knee bursitis and should be combined with other conservative treatments. The RICE protocol—Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation—is the foundational approach for managing acute inflammation. Resting involves avoiding painful activities, while applying ice packs several times a day helps reduce pain and inflammation.
Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can help control pain and inflammation. A physical therapist can introduce exercises to strengthen muscles around the knee and improve flexibility, stabilizing the joint and preventing future episodes. If conservative measures do not lead to improvement within a few weeks, or if symptoms like fever or chills occur, consult a healthcare professional to rule out infection or discuss options like corticosteroid injections.