Pes Anserine (Knee Tendon) Bursitis

Pes anserine bursitis is an inflammation of the pes anserine bursa. Bursae are small fluid-filled sacs positioned between bones and surrounding soft tissues, which act as cushions to help reduce friction between the different structures. They are found in many parts of the body. The pes anserine bursa is on the lower-inner part of the knee. It is located between the tibia (shinbone) and three tendons of the hamstring muscle, on the inside of the knee. When bursae become inflamed, they produce an excessive amount of fluid, which causes them to become swollen and press on the surrounding tissues.

Here at YourOrthoSolution, we have some of the top orthopedic surgeons and sports medicine physicians in the country. We are dedicated to getting you back to the things you love through a customized plan that fits only you. Our caring team always goes that extra step to make you feel a part of our family. We have extensive experience specializing in treating pes anserine bursitis and want to help you start the healing process as quickly as possible to get you on the path to recovery.

Cause

Bursitis usually develops as the result of overuse or constant friction and stress on the bursa. Pes anserine bursitis is common in athletes, particularly runners, bicyclists, and swimmers.

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing pes anserine bursitis, including:

• Incorrect training techniques – such as neglecting to stretch, excessive hill running, or sudden increases in mileage
• Repetitive out-turning of the lower leg – as when doing breaststroke kick
• Tight hamstring muscles
• Osteoarthritis of the knee
• Obesity
• Medial meniscus tear

Symptoms

Pain is the primary symptom of pes anserine bursitis. It typically begins gradually and is located on the inside of the knee and/or in the center of the tibia, approximately 2 to 3 inches below the knee joint. The pain generally increases with exercise or climbing stairs.

Tenderness (pain when touched) in the area of pain and swelling on the inside of the knee are other symptoms of the condition.

Treatment

Nonsurgical

Nonsurgical methods are the mainstay of treatment for most people with pes anserine bursitis. They include:

• Rest – activities that worsen the pain should be avoided until the pain subsides
• Exercise modification – athletes should take steps to modify their workout program to prevent further episodes in the future
• Ice or other forms of cold therapy
• Medications – nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (such as ibuprofen) to reduce pain and inflammation
• Corticosteroid injection into the bursa
• Physical therapy – including ultrasound therapy and stretching exercises

Surgical

If significant symptoms persist despite nonsurgical treatment, surgery may occasionally be considered. Surgery consists of removing the pes anserine bursa. This is generally performed via minimally invasive arthroscopy. YourOrthoSolution is always keeping you, the patient, in mind and looking for the least-invasive way to repair all injuries. The smaller the incision, the less trauma to the muscle and other tissues. This produces less bleeding and scarring and leads to a quicker recovery.

During the arthroscopic surgery, a small camera (an arthroscope) is inserted into the knee joint through a very small incision. The camera displays images on a high-definition screen, allowing your surgeon to have a detailed view of the area while he or she uses miniature surgical instruments to perform the surgery.

This type of surgery is almost always performed in an outpatient setting. There are many advantages to outpatient surgery centers versus hospitals, including better outcomes, lower infection rates, no overnight stay, lower costs, and the convenience that comes with a smaller, yet highly, skilled staff.

At YourOrthoSolution, all of our doctors and staff are committed to ensuring that you not only receive the best orthopedic care in the area but also have an exceptional experience each time your visit our locations. Our dedicated staff will handle all insurance processes for you. You can expect to be in a friendly atmosphere and receive top orthopedic treatment to help you return to full mobility as quickly as possible.