What should you know about pes anserine bursa?

It lies where three tendons attach near the upper shinbone. Pain is usually felt below the inner knee and may increase with stairs, rising from a chair, running or pressure on the area. The condition is often called pes anserine bursitis.

Repeated friction, a sudden change in activity, tight thigh muscles, altered walking mechanics or knee arthritis can increase pressure around the bursa. A clinician checks the exact tender spot and knee movement because inner-knee pain can also arise from tendons, ligaments or the joint itself. Visible swelling may be mild, so the absence of a lump does not exclude irritation.

Temporarily reduce activities that reproduce the pain, use ice wrapped in a cloth, and return to exercise gradually. A physiotherapist can address hip and thigh strength, flexibility and movement patterns. Anti-inflammatory medication may help some people, but it is not suitable for everyone; discuss medical history, pregnancy, allergies and other medicines with a clinician or pharmacist. Persistent symptoms may prompt consideration of a cortisone injection.

Arrange a clinical review if pain persists, recurs, limits walking or is difficult to distinguish from joint pain. Seek urgent help for a hot, red, rapidly swollen knee, fever, severe pain after injury, inability to bear weight, or new calf swelling or breathlessness. These signs can indicate a problem beyond local bursa irritation.

Ask whether the tender area matches the pes anserine bursa, what activity changes are appropriate, whether medicine is safe for you, and when an injection or further assessment should be considered.