Pes anserine bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa located between the shinbone, or tibia, and the three tendons of the hamstrings muscles at the inside of the knee. The bursa is a slippery sac that prevents bone and the end of joints and skin from rubbing together during physical activity. Pes anserine bursitis usually occurs after excessive physical activity that involves repetitive movements. A patient with pes anserine bursitis will experience pain, swelling, tenderness and redness on the inside of the knee. A doctor should be seen for proper treatment.
Ice Therapy
According to the Mayo Clinic, ice therapy is an effective treatment for bursitis. Ice is effective because it helps control pain and reduces inflammation in the bursa. A patient with pes anserine bursitis should apply an ice pack or a pack of frozen vegetables to the affected area for 20 minutes, then remove the ice pack for 20 minutes. This cycle should be repeated as often as possible for the first two days to relieve symptoms.
Medications
Oral over-the-counter medication may ease pain and reduce inflammation. Particularly, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Aleve, ibuprofen or Motrin may reduce inflammation around the pes anserine bursa. These medications should be taken with caution because they may cause stomach, kidney or liver problems. A patient taking these medications should let his doctor know if he experiences stomach pain, bloody vomit, bloody stool, dark urine or clay-colored stools. These may be signs of organ damage. In more severe cases, a doctor may recommend a steroid injection into the bursa, which often provides prompt relief, states the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is another treatment option for bursitis. Physical therapy strengthens the muscles around the knee joint, particularly the hamstring muscles, to reduce the risk of future episodes of pes anserine bursitis. Patients should perform exercises learned in physical therapy at home, and continually change their normal exercise regimens to prevent excessive repetitive motions that cause pes anserine bursa irritation.
