*
Three Tendons Insertion  
medial knee muscle insertion

Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Definition  

Anserine tendinobursitis syndrome is a pain to the inner part of the leg, just below the knee joint. It is at a location where three tendons meet and connect to bone. The tendons connect three leg muscles to bone. The muscles include the sartorius, gracilis, and semitendinosus. There are also one or more bursae at this location. A bursa is a fluid-filled sac that decreases friction between bones and muscles.

When bursae become inflamed it is called bursitis . When tendons become inflamed it is called tendonitis . For this pain syndrome, the exact cause is unknown, but it may involve injury or inflammation to the tendons or bursae.

This may be a treatable condition. Contact your doctor if you think you may have this syndrome.

*

Causes  

This condition is most commonly caused by repeated stress to the knee. This injury is common among runners. It is also common among people with conditions such as:

A direct injury to the knee can also cause this condition.

*

Risk Factors  

These factors increase your chance of this injury. Tell your doctor if you have any of these risk factors:

  • Runner
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Tear to meniscus
  • Obese
  • Change in running routine
    • More miles
    • Sudden increase in workout
  • Tight hamstrings
  • Flat feet
  • Diabetes
  • Feet that roll inwards (overpronation)
*

Symptoms  

If you have any of these symptoms do not assume it is due to this condition. These may be caused by other conditions. Tell your doctor if you have any of these:

  • Pain to inside part of knee
  • Knee tenderness
  • Swelling
  • Pain worsens with bending and straightening of knee
  • Pain worsens with exercise
*

Diagnosis  

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. You will be asked to show exactly where you feel the pain. Often diagnosis is made by physical exam alone. Sometimes an x-ray is performed to rule out other injuries.

*

Treatment  

Talk with your doctor about the best plan for you. Treatment options include the following:

Rest  

You will be instructed to rest the affected knee until the pain goes away. You may also be advised to ice your knee 3-4 times a day to decrease the inflammation.

Medications  

Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help with pain and inflammation. Your doctor will advise you which NSAID to take and how often. You may also receive a steroid injection directly into your knee to relieve pain and inflammation.

*

Prevention  

To help reduce your chance of developing anserine tendinobursitis, take the following steps:

  • When increasing your workout or run, do so gradually.
  • Stretch before and after your workout.
  • Wear appropriate shoes for the specific activity and your feet.