Pes anserine bursitis is common in people with osteoarthritis of the knee. The pes anserine bursa is a small lubricating sac located between the shinbone (tibia) and three tendons of the hamstrings muscle at the inside of the knee. Because the three tendons splay out on the front of the shinbone and look like the foot of a goose, pes anserine bursitis is also known as "goose foot" bursitis.

Causes
Bursitis, an inflammation of a bursa, usually develops as a result of overuse or constant friction and stress on the bursa. Athletes, particularly runners, are susceptible to the condition. Several factors can contribute to the development of pes anserine bursitis, including: Incorrect training techniques, such as neglecting to stretch, doing excessive hill running and sudden increases in mileage; tight hamstring muscles; an out-turning of the knee or lower leg; and osteoarthritis in the knee.

Symptoms
Pain and tenderness on the inside of your knee and/or in the center of the shinbone, approximately two inches below the joint, are the primary symptoms of goosefoot bursitis.

Treatment
Athletes who have pes anserine bursitis should take steps to modify their workout program so that the inflammation does not recur. Other treatments include:

• Rest - Discontinue the activity or substitute a different activity until the bursitis clears up.
• Ice - Apply ice at regular intervals three or four times a day for 20 minutes at a time.
• Anti-inflammatory medication. Aspirin or ibuprofen will ease the pain and reduce the inflammation.

In addition, your doctor may inject a solution of anesthetic and steroid into the bursa to provide prompt relief.