What is Pes Anserinus Bursitis?
The pes anserinus is made up of three tendons which include the sartorius, gracilis, and semitendinosus muscles. These muscles are primary flexors of the knee and help protect the knee from extreme valgus or lateral stress. Combined anatomically they lie just above the medial collateral ligament. Pes Anserinus bursitis is irritation of the bursa or fluid filled sac that helps to cushion the knee between these anatomical structures. Pes Anserinus bursitis can occur from:
1.) Acute trauma to the knee
2.) Athletic overuse
3.) Biomechanical processes.
Pes Anserinus symptoms include pain located on the inner knee, swelling along the inner knee, and difficulty climbing up and down stairs. Athletes who develop Pes Anserinus bursitis typically participate in a sport that requires a great deal of sharp cutting movements, runners and swimmers. Treatment for Pes Anserinus bursitis is aimed to reduce the strain on the injured musculature. This may be done with stretching, heat, ultrasound, deep tissue massage, NSAIDS, and ice massage. Pes Anserinus bursitis should begin to resolve within a few weeks. As your symptoms begin to dissipate you may return slowly to activities that do not aggravate your knee. Your Joint Ventures Physical Therapist can perform all of these treatments to assist you in the recovery and help return you to your previous activity level.