Pes anserine bursitis is a common condition among athletes, particularly those engaged in activities involving repetitive knee flexion. This blog post aims to shed light on what pes anserine bursitis is, its causes, symptoms, and effective treatment options.
What is Pes Anserine Bursitis? Pes anserine bursitis refers to inflammation of the pes anserine bursa, a small fluid-filled sac located between the shinbone and the hamstring tendons at the inside (medial aspect) of the knee. This condition typically occurs due to overuse, trauma, or other underlying medical conditions.
Causes of Pes Anserine Bursitis:
Activities involving repetitive knee flexion and extension, such as running, cycling, or jumping, can irritate the pes anserine bursa, leading to inflammation. This would be characterized as an overuse type injury. Other factors can also contribute to this type of pain. For example, tightness in the hamstring or quadriceps muscles can contribute to increased stress on the pes anserine bursa which can create this pain on the inner aspect of the knee. Poor biomechanics, such as improper running or walking technique, can predispose individuals to pes anserine bursitis. Lastly, individuals with a history of knee injuries or conditions like osteoarthritis are more susceptible to developing pes anserine bursitis.
Symptoms of Pes Anserine Bursitis:
- Pain and tenderness on the inside of the knee, approximately two to three inches below the joint line.
- Swelling and warmth over the pes anserine bursa.
- Pain aggravated by activities such as climbing stairs, squatting, or prolonged sitting with the knee bent.
- Limited range of motion in the knee joint.
Treatment Options:
Rest can be an effective initial approach to managing this type of pain. Avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms can allow the inflamed bursa to heal. Applying ice packs to the affected area several times a day can help to reduce pain and inflammation. Often performing these alone will not completely resolve the issue.
Physical therapy is a great way to safely and effectively reduce pain and return to the activities you enjoy. A physical therapist can design a customized exercise program to strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve flexibility, and correct biomechanical issues. Addressing these factors with a professional is crucial in maximizing function and preventing reinjury.
Pes anserine bursitis can be a painful condition that interferes with daily activities and sports participation. However, with prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment, most individuals can achieve significant relief from symptoms and return to their regular activities. If you suspect you have pes anserine bursitis, call Respire Physical Therapy at 703-671-1871 or click here to schedule an initial evaluation and get back to your favorite activities!
Tags: regain your movement freedom, knee pain, knee bursitis, pes anserine bursitis, choosept, arlingtonva, alexandriava, fallschurchva, ptworks, Physical Therapy, pain free living, Respire Physical Therapy, pt education, physical therapist
