Structure
Bursae are sac-like structures, with an inner synovial membrane, that produces a thin film of synovial fluid. They aid in reducing friction between moving tissues of the body, such as between tendon and bone, ligament and bone, tendons and ligaments, and between muscles.
Inflammation of the bursa is known as bursitis. If the inflammation is due to injury or strain, it is known as aseptic bursitis. However, if the inflammation is caused by infection, it is known as septic bursitis.
Related parts of the anatomy
Anatomical Relations
The iliotibial tract bursa is a closed sac of synovial fluid that lies between the iliotibial tract and the lateral condyle of the femur.
Function
The iliotibial tract bursa aids in the movement of the iliotibial tract over the lateral condyle of the femur. Lateral knee pain may present in young athletes due to repetitive impingement of the distal iliotibial tract over the lateral femoral condyle (Frontera, Silver and Rizzo, 2018).
List of Clinical Correlates
—Iliotibial tract bursitis
—Iliotibial band friction syndrome
References
Frontera, W. R., Silver, J. K. and Rizzo, T. D. (2018) Essentials of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation E-Book: Musculoskeletal Disorders, Pain, and Rehabilitation. 4 edn.: Elsevier Health Sciences, p. 384–390.
Learn more about this topic from other Elsevier products
Synovial Bursa
Synovial bursae are fluid-filled sacks that facilitate the movement between muscle and bone, ligaments, and/or tendons, and develop during intrauterine life.
