Knee Bursitis

Knee Bursitis: Non-Surgical Treatment in Palm Beach

Knee bursitis refers to inflammation of one of the bursae surrounding the knee joint, small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joint structures. The most commonly affected bursae are the prepatellar (kneecap surface), infrapatellar (just below the kneecap), and pes anserine (inner knee) bursae.

Precise ultrasound-guided injection at Palm Beach Regenerative ensures the correct bursa is targeted, which is critical for effective treatment. Contact us to learn more.

What Is Knee Bursitis?

Each knee bursa serves a specific mechanical purpose, and the pattern of symptoms reveals which one is involved. Prepatellar bursitis is common in professions requiring kneeling. Infrapatellar bursitis is associated with patellar tendon pathology. Pes anserine bursitis commonly occurs in overweight, middle-aged women with knee OA.

Signs and Symptoms

• Prepatellar: Swelling and tenderness directly over the kneecap, worsening with kneeling
• Infrapatellar: Pain and swelling below the kneecap, worsening with jumping or stair descent
• Pes anserine: Inner knee pain and tenderness, often worse at night and with stair climbing
• Localized swelling at the affected bursa site
• Pain with specific movements that load the involved bursa

Common Causes and Risk Factors

• Repetitive kneeling or friction (prepatellar)
• Overuse and traction at the tendon insertion (infrapatellar)
• Knee OA and obesity (pes anserine)
• Direct trauma or blow to the knee
• Inflammatory or crystalline arthritis (gout, pseudogout)

How It Is Diagnosed

Ultrasound identifies bursal fluid and confirms which bursa is inflamed, guiding precise injection placement. MRI may be used when associated joint or tendon pathology is suspected.

Conventional Treatment Options

• Rest, ice, and knee padding
• NSAIDs for inflammation management
• Ultrasound-guided aspiration and steroid injection of the bursa
• Addressing underlying contributing conditions such as knee OA

The Palm Beach Regenerative Approach

Dr. Ghattas uses real-time ultrasound to aspirate any excess bursal fluid and deliver targeted platelet injection directly into the affected bursa, addressing the inflammatory environment with a biological rather than purely pharmacological approach.

For patients with pes anserine bursitis secondary to underlying knee OA, the knee joint itself is addressed simultaneously, treating both the bursal inflammation and the joint pathology driving it.

The BioMod Advantage: MLS Robotic Laser Therapy applied to the knee reduces bursal inflammation and supports local tissue recovery. Xymogen anti-inflammatory protocols reduce the systemic inflammatory load that drives bursal recurrence, making your treatment more durable.

Like all medical procedures, orthobiologic treatments have potential risks and benefits. Results vary by individual. Not all patients are candidates. Dr. Ghattas will discuss your specific situation, realistic expectations, and all treatment options, including when surgery or other interventions may be more appropriate.