Pes anserinus (leg)

Pes anserinus refers to the conjoined tendons of three muscles that insert onto the anteromedial (front and inside) surface of the proximal extremity of the tibia. The muscles are: the sartorius, gracilis, and semitendinosus. The name "pes anserinus" translates to "goose's foot" in Latin, due to the arrangement of the tendinous insertions' resemblance to a goose's foot.

Anatomy

The pes anserinus is located on the medial aspect of the human knee. It is composed of the tendons of three muscles: the sartorius, gracilis, and semitendinosus. These muscles have their origins at different points of the pelvis and thigh, but their tendons come together at the pes anserinus.

Sartorius

The sartorius muscle originates from the anterior superior iliac spine. It is the longest muscle in the human body and runs down the length of the thigh in an oblique manner.

Gracilis

The gracilis muscle is the most superficial muscle on the medial side of the thigh. It originates from the external point of the ischiopubic ramus and is inserted near the upper part of the medial surface of the tibia.

Semitendinosus

The semitendinosus, so named because it has a long tendon of insertion, is situated at the posterior and medial aspect of the thigh. It originates from the lower and medial impression on the upper part of the tibia.

Clinical significance

Inflammation of the pes anserinus (known as "pes anserinus bursitis" or "anterior knee pain") is a common cause of medial knee pain. The pes anserinus bursa may also become inflamed in individuals with osteoarthritis of the knee.

See also

• Knee
• Tendons
• Muscles of the lower limb

References

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Pes anserinus (leg)

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