Introduction
Knee tendon bursitis, commonly found at the inner (medial) knee, is an inflammatory condition caused by factors such as trauma, overuse, and degenerative joint disease. It predominantly affects athletes, middle-aged women with obesity, and older adults suffering from arthritis. Fortunately, surgery is seldom required. Most individuals find relief through conservative treatments, including rest, physical therapy, and medications.
Anatomy
Tendons are fibrous structures that connect muscles to bones. The pes anserinus tendons anchor the muscles responsible for flexing and rotating the knee. The term "pes anserinus," meaning "goosefoot," describes the appearance of these combined tendons, which attach to the inner side of the tibia (shinbone). Beneath these tendons lies the pes anserine bursa, a small, cushion-like sac that secretes fluid, allowing the tendons to glide smoothly over the bone.
Causes
Knee tendon bursitis occurs due to inflammation of the bursa, often triggered by athletic overuse, trauma, chronic arthritis, degenerative joint disease, and obesity, particularly in middle-aged women.
The condition is most frequently seen in:
- Middle-aged women with obesity
- Young athletes engaged in sports requiring quick lateral movements, such as basketball, tennis, and soccer
- Older adults with arthritis
- Individuals with flat feet
- Those with bowlegged knee deformities
Symptoms
Individuals with knee tendon bursitis may experience swelling, tenderness, and pain during specific movements, such as climbing stairs or rising from a seated position.
Diagnosis
A physician typically diagnoses knee tendon bursitis by conducting a physical examination and assessing your medical history. They may also recommend imaging tests, such as ultrasound or MRI scans, to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment
Initial treatment for knee tendon bursitis includes rest and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to alleviate pain. Physical therapy techniques, including ice therapy, therapeutic ultrasound, and targeted exercises, can assist in pain relief and restoring functional movement. Muscle atrophy is a concern, particularly for older adults and those with obesity; therefore, discussions about healthy weight loss and management with a physician are crucial. For persistent symptoms, injections of local anesthetics, corticosteroids, or a combination of both may provide immediate relief.
Surgery
Surgery is rarely needed for knee tendon bursitis but may be considered for individuals, such as athletes, who experience significant disability. Surgical intervention typically involves removing the bursa and any associated bone growths.
