Pes Anserine Bursitis (Knee Bursitis)

Knee bursitis is a painful condition caused by an inflammation of the pes anserine bursa, a fluid-filled sac between the tibia and the tendons of the hamstring muscle on the inner side of the knee. It can cause pain and restrict the range of motion in the knee.

What You Need To Know About Pes Anserine Bursitis (Knee Bursitis)

What is Pes Anserine Bursitis?

The pes anserine bursa is a fluid sac situated between the shinbone and the hamstrings on the inner side of the knee. When working properly, the pes anserine bursa cushions the joint and reduces friction around your knee joint.

Pes anserine bursitis, or knee bursitis, occurs when the bursa becomes inflamed. Inflammation causes pain and limits the mobility of the knee.

If you're struggling with pain from knee bursitis, get moving again by booking an appointment with a Resurgens knee expert.


What Causes Pes Anserine Bursitis?

Pes anserine bursitis is most often caused by overuse and degenerative disorders such as knee osteoarthritis, since constant friction in the knee joint can cause the bursa to become inflamed. It may also occur from a direct injury to the knee.

Knee bursitis commonly occurs among athletes and people who live active lifestyles. Running, basketball, racquetball, and other sports may make one prone to pes anserine bursitis. People who have occupations where they must kneel on the ground frequently are also more at risk for knee bursitis.

Pes Anserine Bursitis Symptoms

Knee bursitis symptoms can be debilitating and can vary depending on which bursae are affected. Some pes anserine bursitis symptoms may include:

  • Pain developing on the inside of the knee or center of the shinbone

  • Pain and tenderness while the knee is in motion

  • Inflammation or puffiness around the affected area

  • Heat radiating from the knee

  • Limited range of motion

How Is Pes Anserine Bursitis Diagnosed?

In order to diagnose knee bursitis, your Resurgens knee physician will first talk with you about your medical history and how the condition developed. Then they will perform a physical examination to check the pain levels and range of motion in the knee. This exam will only cause brief discomfort for the patient.

Then, your doctor will likely order diagnostic imaging to rule out any other potential knee conditions and make sure there aren't other underlying problems. Using the information from imaging, your physician will create a custom treatment plan for your needs.

Knee Bursitis Treatment

No two cases of knee bursitis are the same, and treatment does vary depending on the severity of the condition. Fortunately, knee bursitis treatment is usually non-surgical and can be healed with at-home treatments. Pes anserine bursitis treatment methods may include:

  • Rest and immobilization of the joint

  • Physical therapy

  • Icing the area

  • NSAIDs to help with pain management

  • Corticosteroid injections for severe pain.

A Resugens knee physician can help you get the treatment you need. If you're struggling with debilitating knee bursitis, get moving again by booking an appointment with a Resurgens knee expert.


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