Pes Anserine Bursitis is a common cause of anterior knee pain that occurs when the anserine bursa (sub muscular bursa) becomes inflamed.   Bursae are fluid-filled jelly-like sacs that act as cushions and decrease friction between tendons and their attachments to bone. If the bursae become inflamed, then there is an increased fluid and increased pressure on the knee-tendon. The bursae and tendon become painful, known as bursitis.

The pes anserine bursa or “goose foot” (latin) is a bursa on the inside of the knee 2-3 inches below the knee. When is bursa becomes irritated and painful, it’s known as pes anserine bursitis.

 Pes anserine bursitis palpation

Knee pain or swelling on the pes anserinus 2-3 inches down the knee on the skin may feel “boggy” when compressed by fingers. The pes anserine may show redness and feel warm to the touch. Pain increases with activities that involve loaded knee extension, such as climbing stairs or hill running.

Causes

The pes anserine bursa reduces friction between the tendons and tibia. Mechanical friction between the pes ansernus and the tendons increases with the knee’s inward movement “valgus collapse.” Any excessive exercise or injury involving the knee’s excessive or repetitive inward motion can create irritation of the pes anserine bursa, resulting in bursitis.

Risk Factors

• Knee arthritis
• Diabetes
• Repetitive hill running or stair climbing (common)
• Meniscal tear
• More common in females due to functional tendency knee collapse during exercise
• Tight hamstrings or hamstring tendonitis
• Hip abductors weakness
• Poor hip/core stability

Treatment for Pes Anserine Bursitis

• Punctiform technique on Bursa to normalize bursal fluid pressure
• Fascial stretching of the hamstring
• Abduction strengthening exercises
• Fascial Release of Adductors

Our editorial practices include evidence-based practices, interventions, and recommendations.