Comparison of the efficacy of physical therapy and corticosteroid injection in the treatment of pes anserine tendino-bursitis

• Published in: Journal of Physical Therapy Science Vol. 28; no. 7; pp. 1993 - 1997
• Main Authors: Sarifakioglu, Banu, Afsar, Sevgi Ikbali, Yalbuzdag, Seniz Akcay, Ustaömer, Kubra, Bayramoğlu, Meral
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Japan The Society of Physical Therapy Science 01.01.2016
• Subjects: Corticosteroid injection; Original; Pes anserine tendino-bursitis; Physical therapy; Pes anserine tendino-bursitis; Corticosteroid injection; Physical therapy
• ISSN: 0915-5287; 2187-5626
• DOI: 10.1589/jpts.28.1993

[Purpose] The aims of this study were twofold. The first was to compare the functionalcapacity and pain of patients with knee osteoarthritis (KOA), with or without pes anserinetendino-bursitis (PATB). The second is to compare the efficacy of two treatment methods(physical therapy and corticosteroid injection) for patients with PATB. [Subjects andMethods] Sixty patient with KOA and PATB (Group 1) and 57 patients with KOA but withoutPATB (Group 2) were enrolled in the study. The patients’ visual analog scale (VAS),Western Ontario and McMaster Universities osteoarthritis index (WOMAC) scores andthree-meter timed-up and go scores were measured. The PATB group was randomly divided intotwo groups (Group A and B). Physical therapy (PT) modalities were applied to the firstgroup (Group A), and the second group (Group B) received corticosteroid injections to thepes anserine area. Eight weeks later, patients’ parameters were measured again. [Results]Initial WOMAC scores and timed up-and-go times were significantly higher in Group 1 thanin Group 2. Both treatments resulted in significant improvements in all measuredparameters, but no significant difference was detected between Group A and B. [Conclusion]Patients with PATB tend to have more severe pain, more altered functionality, and greaterdisability than those with KOA but without PATB. Both corticosteroid injection and PT areeffective methods of treatment for PATB. Injection therapy can be considered an effective,inexpensive and fast therapeutic method.