Pes Anserine Bursitis: Causes, Symptoms, and How Physiotherapy Can Help
Pes Anserine Bursitis: Understanding Inner Knee Pain
Pes Anserine Bursitis is a common condition that causes pain and tenderness on the inner side of the knee. It often affects runners, active individuals, people with arthritis, and those recovering from knee injuries.
The condition can make walking, climbing stairs, exercising, and daily activities uncomfortable. Fortunately, physiotherapy can effectively help manage symptoms and address the underlying causes.
What Is Pes Anserine Bursitis?
Pes Anserine Bursitis occurs when the pes anserine bursa becomes irritated or inflamed.
A bursa is a small fluid-filled sac that reduces friction between tissues. The pes anserine bursa is located on the inner portion of the knee, just below the joint line, where three muscles attach to the tibia (shin bone):
Sartorius
Gracilis
Semitendinosus
When excessive stress is placed on this area, inflammation and pain can develop.
Common Causes of Pes Anserine Bursitis
Several factors may contribute to the development of Pes Anserine Bursitis.
Repetitive Stress
Activities involving repetitive knee bending such as running, cycling, and stair climbing can irritate the bursa.
Muscle Tightness
Tight hamstrings, adductors, and surrounding muscles may increase stress on the inner knee.
Knee Osteoarthritis
Individuals with knee arthritis are at a higher risk of developing Pes Anserine Bursitis.
Poor Lower Limb Mechanics
Abnormal movement patterns during walking, running, or exercise may increase loading through the medial knee.
Weak Hip Muscles
Reduced hip and glute strength may contribute to altered knee alignment and increased stress on the bursa.
Excessive Training Load
Sudden increases in exercise intensity, duration, or frequency can contribute to inflammation.
Symptoms of Pes Anserine Bursitis
The symptoms of Pes Anserine Bursitis may develop gradually or appear after increased activity.
Pain on the Inner Side of the Knee
Pain is usually felt approximately 2–3 inches below the inside of the knee joint.
Tenderness to Touch
The area may feel sore when pressure is applied.
Pain During Stairs
Many people notice increased discomfort when climbing or descending stairs.
Pain During Exercise
Walking, running, squatting, or prolonged activity may aggravate symptoms.
Morning Stiffness
Some individuals experience stiffness or discomfort when first getting out of bed.
Who Is at Risk for Pes Anserine Bursitis?
Pes Anserine Bursitis is commonly seen in:
Runners
Cyclists
Older adults
Individuals with knee osteoarthritis
People who are overweight
Athletes involved in repetitive lower-body activities
How Physiotherapy Can Help Pes Anserine Bursitis
Physiotherapy is highly effective for treating Pes Anserine Bursitis because it focuses on reducing pain while correcting the contributing factors.
Comprehensive Assessment
A physiotherapist evaluates:
Knee mobility
Hip strength
Muscle flexibility
Walking and running mechanics
Functional movement patterns
Pain Management
Treatment may include:
Manual therapy
Soft tissue techniques
Activity modification
Therapeutic exercises
Education on load management
Improving Flexibility
Addressing tightness in the hamstrings, adductors, calves, and surrounding tissues can help reduce stress on the bursa.
Strengthening the Lower Limb
Improving strength in the hips, glutes, quadriceps, and core can enhance knee stability and reduce irritation.
Correcting Movement Patterns
Optimizing biomechanics helps decrease excessive forces on the inner knee.
Exercises Commonly Used for Pes Anserine Bursitis
Your physiotherapist may prescribe exercises targeting:
Hip Strength
Strong hip muscles help control knee alignment during activity.
Glute Activation
Improved glute function reduces excessive stress through the knee.
Core Stability
Better trunk control supports efficient lower limb movement.
Functional Strength Training
Exercises are progressed according to your goals and activity level.
Can Pes Anserine Bursitis Be Prevented?
Many cases of Pes Anserine Bursitis can be prevented by:
Maintaining good lower-body strength
Improving flexibility
Progressing exercise gradually
Wearing appropriate footwear
Addressing movement impairments early
Following a balanced training program
When Should You Seek Physiotherapy for Pes Anserine Bursitis?
Consider seeking treatment if:
Inner knee pain persists for more than a few days
Pain affects walking or exercise
Symptoms worsen during activity
Stairs become painful
Home management is not improving symptoms
Early treatment often leads to faster recovery and better outcomes.
Final Thoughts on Pes Anserine Bursitis
Pes Anserine Bursitis is a common cause of inner knee pain that can affect both active individuals and those with underlying knee conditions. By identifying and addressing the factors contributing to irritation, physiotherapy can help reduce pain, improve function, and prevent recurrence.
At Uniphysio & Associates, our physiotherapists provide individualized assessments and treatment plans to help patients recover from Pes Anserine Bursitis and return to the activities they enjoy.
Or Call Us today!
(905) 997-1677
