Knee Tendon Bursitis

Knee Tendon Bursitis Specialist in Kansas City, MO


What is Knee Tendon Bursitis?

Also known as pes anserine bursitis, knee tendon bursitis is when inflammation occurs in the small, jelly-like sack of bursa located between the shinbone and the three tendons of the hamstring muscle at the inner knee. This happens when the bursa is irritated, leading to the production of too much fluid. The excess fluid causes swelling and puts pressure on the knee. This increased swelling and pressure lead to pain in the knee.

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What Causes Knee Tendon Bursitis?

Pes anserine bursitis is common in runners and other athletes. This is because strenuous exercise can lead to overuse, constant friction, or stress on the bursa. Osteoarthritis of the knee also increases your chances of suffering from bursitis. Our Orthopedic doctors in Kansas City, MO, can explain other factors that play a part in the development of knee tendon bursitis, such as:

  • Tight Hamstring muscles
  • Failing to stretch before activity
  • Excessive hill running or a sudden increase in mileage
  • Obesity
  • Being duck-footed or having your feet point outwards
  • Frequent kneeling

What are the Symptoms of Knee Tendon Bursitis?

Common symptoms of knee tendon bursitis include pain, swelling, and warmth around the affected area. The pain commonly develops slowly on the inside of your knee, or the center of the shinbone, roughly 2-3 inches below the knee joint.

The pain can become severe and increase with activity. Often, you may have trouble bending or straightening your leg. While these symptoms may indicate knee tendon bursitis, a medical consult is necessary to distinguish bursitis from other injuries or conditions.

Contact Orthopedic Health Of Kansas City to schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists or visit our orthopedic walk-in clinic. Your doctor will assess whether an x-ray is needed to rule out arthritis or bone damage.

How is Knee Tendon Bursitis Treated at Orthopedic Health of Kansas City?

Our top-rated doctors will suggest a treatment plan based on the severity of your issues. Resting the affected knee may be enough to clear up mild bursitis for some. RICE therapy, a combination of rest, ice, compression, and elevation, is the first step toward recovery. If pain persists, anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen can help reduce swelling and pain. In more severe cases, your doctor may inject a solution of anesthetic and steroid into the bursa for quick relief. Physical therapy may be recommended to help treat knee tendon bursitis and keep it from recurring.

When to Seek Knee Tendon Bursitis Treatment?

While some cases of knee tendon bursitis can improve with rest and simple changes like using a knee pad when kneeling for extended periods, medical treatment is often necessary.

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, please contact Orthopedic Health of Kansas City and make an appointment or visit our orthopedic walk-in urgent care clinic. Our doctors will perform a complete examination to diagnose and provide a knee pain treatment plan. From physical therapy to complicated surgery, our top-rated orthopedic specialists will help you get active again.