Pes Anserine Bursitis

The pes anserine, also called ‘goose foot’, is the insertion of the sartorius, gracilis and semitendinosus muscles. These muscles are internal rotators that primarily flex the knee. The three tendons are conjoined on the medial side of the proximal tibia. 

The pes anserine bursa is a fluid filled space that acts like a cushion to reduce friction between the bones, tendons and muscles. Bursitis is an inflammatory condition that usually occurs over time due to repetitive maladaptive loading or excessive pressure. In this case it would be repeated flexion and adduction, or can occur following a direct trauma or hit to the pes anserine region. The bursa becomes inflamed, tender and painful.

However - importantly it is not due to just repetitive loading, it is due to repetitive loading with poor form, muscle imbalance, training errors (technique, programming or volume), unaccustomed loading and poor movement patterns. 

This can cause pain on the inside of the knee, usually exacerbated with running and stairs. The pes anserine region can become swollen and tender to touch. Symptoms can also include decreased muscle strength, range of motion, change in walking pattern and reduced function. 

Physiotherapy treatment includes:

• Relative offloading or resting
• Activity modification - this can be adjusting training style, exercises, volume, load and/or frequency. It is important to remember that an injury doesn’t mean no activity. A physio can help you stay active, involved and progressing in other ways. 
• Sleep postures - a pillow between the knees may help!
• Biomechanic assessment to identify weaknesses, imbalances, incorrect loading patterns
• Strengthening exercises for muscles including the quadriceps, hamstrings and adductors
• Mobility exercises for muscles and joints of the lower limb 
• Return to sport and training plan, including a graded return to training

If you are suffering with knee pain or have been advised by medical practitioner that you have Per Anserine Bursitis then book in with one of our physiotherapists for a comprehensive assessment and treatment to manage your condition today.

Phone 9791 8961 or click the "book online" button on the home page.