Knee Bursitis Diagnosis & Treatment
Bursae are small sacs that are located throughout the body, including around the shoulder, elbow, hip, knee, and heel. They contain a small amount of fluid, and are positioned between bones and soft tissues, acting as cushions to help reduce friction.
Pes anserine bursitis is an inflammation of the bursa located between the shinbone (tibia) and the tendons of the hamstring muscle at the inside of the knee. It occurs when the bursa becomes irritated and produces too much fluid, which causes it to swell and put pressure on the adjacent parts of the knee.
Pain and tenderness on the inside of your knee, approximately 2 to 3 inches below the joint, are common symptoms of pes anserine bursitis of the knee.
Bursitis of the Knee FAQ
What Causes Bursitis of the Knee?
Bursitis of the knee typically occurs due to overuse, friction, or stress on the bursa. It is common in athletes, especially runners, and individuals with osteoarthritis. Pes anserine bursitis is a specific type of knee bursitis caused by irritation of the bursa located between the shinbone and three tendons on the inside of the knee.
Contributing factors include:
- Improper training techniques, such as insufficient stretching, excessive hill running, or abrupt increases in activity levels.
- Tight hamstring muscles.
- Obesity.
- Outward rotation of the knee or lower leg.
- Osteoarthritis in the knee joint.
- Medial meniscus tears.
What Are The Symptoms of Bursitis of the Knee?
- Gradually developing pain on the inside of the knee and/or the shinbone, approximately 2 to 3 inches below the knee joint.
- Increased pain during exercise or when climbing stairs.
What Are The Treatment Options For Bursitis of the Knee?
Modifying physical activity is essential to prevent recurrent inflammation. Additional treatments include:
- Rest: Temporarily stop activities that worsen the condition or switch to low-impact exercises.
- Ice: Apply ice three to four times daily for 20 minutes to reduce swelling and pain.
- Anti-inflammatory medications: Over-the-counter options, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, may relieve pain and inflammation.
- Injections: Your doctor may administer an anesthetic and steroid injection into the bursa for quick relief.
- Physical therapy: Specific stretching exercises, ice application, and ultrasound therapy can aid recovery.
- Surgical removal: If symptoms persist, outpatient surgical removal of the bursa may be necessary. Recovery involves using crutches temporarily and resuming normal activities within 3 weeks.