Anserine Bursa (Full)

bursa anserina

The anserine bursa lies between the pes anserinus tendon insertion and the medial tibial condyle. Anserine bursitis produces medial knee pain just below the joint line — distinct from MCL pain (at the joint line) and medial meniscal pain (at the posterior joint line). It is particularly common in obese women with knee OA, in swimmers (breaststroke), and in patients with valgus knee alignment.

Region: Knee

Biomechanics

Function & Actions

Reduces friction between the pes anserinus tendons and the medial tibial condyle as the knee flexes and extends

Clinical Relevance

Clinical Notes

Anserine bursitis produces tenderness 4-5 cm distal to the medial joint line — lower than most patients expect for knee pain. Ultrasound shows fluid between the pes anserinus and the tibia. Corticosteroid injection into the bursa provides reliable rapid relief. Weight loss, gait correction, and quadriceps strengthening address the underlying contributors.

Pathology

Common Injuries & Conditions

Anserine Bursitis

Medial tibial bursal inflammation producing pain 4-5 cm below the joint line managed with corticosteroid injection and addressing OA, obesity, and valgus malalignment.