Pes Anserine Bursitis

Bursitis is a painful condition caused by inflammation of the bursa, a fluid filled sac that acts as a gliding surface where muscles & tendons slide over the bone to reduce friction. There are three main ways bursitis occurs, injury (such as joint over use), infection (this usually occurs with bursae close to the skin such as kneecaps or elbows) or illness (such as gout). The most common cause of bursitis is injury due to over use of a joint. There are over 150 bursae in the body, any of which can develop bursitis, the most common areas;

• Trochanteric bursitis (hip)
• Olecranon bursitis (elbow)
• Subacromial bursitis (shoulder)
• Prepatellar bursitis/housemaid's knee (kneecap)

The pes anserinus is made up of the cojoined tendons of the sartorious, gracilis and semitendinosus muscles, which together resemble a gooses foot. These tendons attach to the inside section of the tibia (shinbone). These pes anserine bursa is located between the tibia and the hamstring muscles, acting to reduce friction.

Causes of pes anserine bursitis:

• Over use of the hamstring muscles is the main cause of pes anserine bursitis. Athletes are particularly prone to this condition.

• Degenerative joint disease of the knee is another cause of pes anserine bursitis.

• Obesity, especially in middle aged women.

Symptoms of pes anserine bursitis:

• Localised pain, tenderness & swelling in the medial (inner side) of the knee, approximately two to three inches below the kneecap.

Treatment of pes anserine bursitis:

• R.I.C.E therapy. Rest, ice, compression, elevation.
• Heat packs may also be of assistance in  relieving inflammation & discomfort.

• Anti inflammatory medication.
• Steroid injections.
• Fine needle aspiration if fluid continues to build up in the bursa.

While great care has been made in the creation of these articles, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or omissions on these pages. If in any doubt whatsoever, seek professional medical advice.