Does joint aspiration treat knee bursitis?

Knee bursitis is inflammation of a small fluid-filled sac near the knee. During aspiration, a clinician uses a needle to withdraw some of the extra fluid. This may reduce tightness and swelling around the bursa. The sample can be examined for signs of infection, blood, or crystals, which helps distinguish different causes of inflammation.

Aspiration does not automatically stop the bursa from becoming irritated again. Pressure on the knee, a blow, repeated kneeling, inflammatory disease, or infection can influence the next step. A clinician may combine drainage with rest, activity changes, medication, or treatment directed at infection when that is suspected.

Arrange an assessment if swelling is persistent, returns after drainage, or makes kneeling and walking difficult. Until you are assessed, reduce activities that press directly on the front of the knee and use only pain relief that is suitable for you. Do not try to drain the swelling yourself. If aspiration is advised, ask how the fluid will be tested and how the puncture site should be kept clean.

Seek prompt medical care for a hot or rapidly reddening knee, fever or chills, drainage from the skin, rapidly increasing swelling, or severe pain with difficulty moving the joint. These features can occur with infection and need timely assessment; aspiration may help with diagnosis, but it is not a substitute for treatment of the infection.

Ask whether the swelling is in a bursa or inside the joint, whether the fluid should be sent for testing, what may have triggered the bursitis, and what signs should lead you to return after aspiration.