The evaluation of knee bursitis begins with a history and physical exam.

Physical findings in someone with knee bursitis include:

• Tenderness over the knee bursa
• Swelling around the knee bursa
• Redness over the bursa of the knee
• Normal range of motion in the knee

Tests that may be used to evaluate knee bursitis include:

• Examination of fluid from the bursa:
• Fluid is removed from the bursa with a needle
• X-rays of the knee

Additional tests that may be used to evaluate knee bursitis include:

• Arthrocentesis:
• Fluid is removed from the knee joint with a needle
• MRI scan of the knee
• CT scan of the knee