Bursa is a cushion like structure filled with fluid (same fluid found in joints) situated between tendons and bones to reduce the friction effects of movement on the tendons.
Pes Anserine is the point on the medial (inner) Tibia on which three tendons ( Sartorius, Gracillis and Semitendinosus muscles) converge and insert. The Pes Anserine bursitis arises when this structure is irritated and inflamed resulting in pain in the medial side of the knee associated with swelling.
It results either by direct trauma to the medial aspect of the knee joint or after repetitive and over use stresses such as running or climbing stairs especially when the Hamstring muscle is tight.
Treatment includes avoiding causative factors, Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory drugs and physiotherapy.
Physiotherapy intervention:
- ICE application which helps to control inflammation and swelling in the first 48 hours.
- Transverse Deep Friction over the site of the bursa.
- Ultrasound therapy.
- Stretching Hamstring muscle and Hip adductors.
- Strengthening Quadriceps muscle.
- Taping.
- Shock Wave Therapy in some chronic cases.