Final answer:
Pes anserinus denotes the combined tendinous insertion of the sartorius, gracilis, and semitendinosus muscles on the medial side of the tibia, with an overlying anserine bursa that can become inflamed and cause medial knee pain.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term Pes anserinus refers to the conjoined tendons of three muscles: sartorius, gracilis, and semitendinosus. These tendons insert at the medial proximal tibia and resemble a goose's foot, which is how the name 'Pes anserinus' translates. A bursa, known as the anserine bursa, lies between these tendons and the tibia, functioning as a cushion to reduce friction. When it becomes inflamed, a condition known as 'Pes Anserine Bursitis' occurs, leading to tightness or pain on the medial side of the knee.
Sitting with legs cross-legged can sometimes aggravate this condition. The affected muscles are primarily involved in flexing the leg and extending the thigh, as well as contributing to the stability of the knee. The patella, a sesamoid bone located within the muscle tendon of the quadriceps group, does not insert into the Pes anserinus but serves to protect the tendon from rubbing against the distal femur