Burning pain in the knee when kneeling is a distinct and often uncomfortable sensation. This discomfort can significantly interfere with daily activities. It is frequently a sign of irritation or inflammation within the knee joint, often responding well to various interventions. Understanding the underlying causes can help in managing and preventing recurrence.
Underlying Reasons for the Pain
Several conditions can lead to burning pain in the knee when pressure is applied through kneeling. Each involves different structures within or around the knee. Identifying the specific cause is important for effective management.
Prepatellar bursitis
Prepatellar bursitis, commonly known as “housemaid’s knee,” involves inflammation of the bursa located directly in front of the kneecap. This fluid-filled sac normally provides cushioning. Frequent kneeling or direct impact can irritate it, causing swelling, tenderness, and burning pain, especially with direct pressure.
Patellofemoral pain syndrome
Another common cause is patellofemoral pain syndrome, often called “runner’s knee,” which involves irritation under or around the kneecap. Activities that increase pressure on the kneecap, such as kneeling, squatting, or going up and down stairs, can aggravate this condition. The pain can manifest as a dull ache or a sharp, burning sensation, often linked to overuse or muscle imbalances around the hip and knee.
Infrapatellar bursitis
Infrapatellar bursitis, also referred to as “pastor’s knee” or “clergyman’s knee,” affects the bursa located just below the kneecap. Repetitive kneeling or direct trauma can cause inflammation of this bursa. Symptoms include localized pain, swelling, and redness just beneath the kneecap, intensifying with kneeling or bending.
Fat pad impingement
Fat pad impingement, or Hoffa’s syndrome, involves the irritation or pinching of the infrapatellar fat pad, which cushions the area below the kneecap. This fat pad has a rich nerve supply, making impingement painful. Burning or aching pain occurs at the front of the knee, around the bottom of the kneecap, and can worsen when the leg is fully straightened or with prolonged standing.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease, can also contribute to burning knee pain, particularly during kneeling. This condition involves cartilage breakdown within the knee, leading to bone-on-bone friction. The resulting inflammation and friction can cause a burning sensation, stiffness, and sometimes grinding noises, especially when pressure is applied.
Nerve irritation or entrapment
Nerve irritation or entrapment around the knee is another potential source of burning pain. Nerves can become compressed or irritated by surrounding tissues, bones, or prolonged positioning. Kneeling for extended periods can put pressure on nerves, resulting in burning, numbness, tingling, or sharp pain that may resolve once the position changes.
Patellar tendinopathy
Finally, patellar tendinopathy, known as “jumper’s knee,” involves inflammation or degeneration of the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap to the shin bone. This overuse injury causes pain and tenderness just below the kneecap. Activities involving repetitive stress on the tendon, such as jumping or prolonged kneeling, can exacerbate the burning discomfort.
When to Consult a Professional
While some burning knee pain may resolve with self-care, certain signs indicate the need for medical evaluation. Consult a healthcare professional if the pain is severe or accompanied by significant swelling, redness, or warmth around the knee. These symptoms could suggest an infection or a more serious issue.
Seek medical attention if you experience an inability to bear weight on the affected leg or if your knee locks or catches during movement. A fever accompanying knee pain also warrants prompt assessment. If the pain persists despite several days of rest and home care, or if you notice numbness or tingling in your leg or foot, a doctor can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Strategies for Relief and Management
Managing burning knee pain often begins with immediate self-care. Resting the knee by avoiding activities that aggravate the pain, especially prolonged kneeling, is a foundational step. Applying ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce swelling and burning. Elevating the leg can also decrease swelling.
Over-the-counter pain relief medications, such as NSAIDs like ibuprofen, can help manage pain and inflammation. Topical pain relief creams can also offer localized relief. When kneeling cannot be avoided, using protective padding, such as knee pads, can significantly reduce direct pressure on the knee and prevent further irritation.
Beyond immediate relief, general management strategies focus on long-term knee health. Engaging in gentle stretching and strengthening exercises for the muscles surrounding the knee, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes, can improve knee stability and function. While specific exercise routines require professional guidance, maintaining muscle balance is beneficial. For individuals carrying excess weight, weight management can reduce stress on the knee joints. Wearing supportive and appropriate footwear also contributes to proper knee alignment and can lessen impact during daily activities.
Proactive Measures
Implementing proactive measures can help prevent the recurrence of burning knee pain, especially for those whose activities involve kneeling. Always using knee pads or placing soft padding on hard surfaces when kneeling provides a protective barrier, significantly reducing direct pressure and friction. Varying kneeling positions can also distribute pressure more evenly and prevent localized irritation.
Regularly performing stretching and strengthening exercises for the leg muscles helps maintain knee stability and flexibility. This includes focusing on the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes to provide adequate support for the knee. Maintaining a healthy body weight reduces overall stress on the knees, lowering the risk of developing conditions that cause pain. For individuals engaged in sports or occupations requiring repetitive kneeling, gradually increasing activity levels and allowing for adequate rest periods can prevent overuse injuries.