Knee bursitis occurs when one of the small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee joint, called bursae, becomes irritated and inflamed. Clinics commonly treat prepatellar bursitis, which affects the front of the kneecap and is often related to frequent kneeling, as well as pes anserine bursitis, which affects the inner knee below the joint line. For all of our services, click here.
Bursitis often develops from repetitive kneeling or direct pressure on the knee, a direct blow to the joint, or overuse from activities that repeatedly stress the tendons crossing near the bursa.
Patients typically notice swelling and tenderness at the front or inner side of the knee, warmth in the area, and pain that increases with kneeling, bending, or pressure directly on the joint.
Treatment focuses on reducing irritation to the affected bursa through activity modification and soft tissue techniques to ease tension in the surrounding muscles and tendons.
Therapists also address any underlying muscle tightness or weakness, such as tight hamstrings contributing to pes anserine bursitis, to reduce the ongoing stress that keeps the bursa irritated.
This treatment approach draws directly on this clinic’s Manual Therapy service, described elsewhere on the site as hands-on treatment to reduce pain, improve joint mobility, and decrease muscle tension.
Because bursitis often recurs when the underlying movement pattern or muscle imbalance is not corrected, physical therapy looks beyond simply calming the current flare-up.
A tailored program of stretching, strengthening, and activity adjustment helps resolve the irritation and reduces the likelihood that the bursitis returns once normal activity resumes.
Sessions are one-on-one with a licensed physical therapist, not an aide or technician. Your therapist will explain what is happening in your knee in plain language, set realistic recovery goals, and give you a home program that keeps progress happening between visits. Whether your symptoms started yesterday or have been bothering you for years, a structured PT program can make a meaningful difference.
Many patients can begin treatment without a physician referral, depending on their insurance plan and condition. We can help verify your eligibility before your first visit.
We accept most major insurance plans and can help you understand your coverage, benefits, and any expected out-of-pocket costs before starting care.