Patellar Tendonitis – also called Jumper’s Knee – is inflammation of the patellar tendon which connects your patella (kneecap) to your tibia (shinbone). The condition is caused by jumping on hard surfaces and, if left untreated, it can lead to tears in your tendon and worsening pain.
Causes of Patellar Tendonitis
Patellar tendonitis is caused by overusing your knee joint, for example, by repeatedly jumping on a hard surface. The patellar tendon works alongside the muscles at the front of your thigh to extend your knee, enabling you to jump, run and kick. The force of hitting the ground, combined with contraction of the leg muscle, can place the patellar tendon under strain. With repeated stress, it may become inflamed and painful and develop microtears in the tendon. If not given adequate time to repair, the tendon may weaken.
Symptoms of Patellar Tendonitis
Symptoms may vary but they include:
- Pain, tenderness and swelling around your patellar tendon.
- Pain which is exacerbated by jumping, running or walking, as well as when bending or straightening your leg.
- Tenderness around the kneecap, particularly behind the lower part.
The symptoms normally begin during or immediately after a workout, however, over time they may start to interfere with everyday activities such as going upstairs. You should seek urgent medical help if the joint becomes red, swollen or hot.
Who is at risk?
The condition is common among sportsmen and women, especially those involved in sports that involve jumping, such as volleyball, basketball and tennis. If you suddenly increase the intensity or frequency of your workout or don’t wear the right running shoes, you have an increased chance of developing Patellar Tendonitis. Tight thigh muscles and hamstrings may place your patella tendon under increased strain, as can imbalanced muscle strength. It may also affect people who have certain chronic conditions like diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
Diagnosing Patellar Tendonitis
It is important to get an accurate diagnosis if the pain persists or becomes worse because Patellar Tendonitis shares the same symptoms as other medical conditions. Your doctor will carry out a physical examination and you may need an X-ray to confirm the diagnosis and rule out any other possible causes of knee pain. Ultrasound tests may be used to identify tears in your patellar tendon.
Treating Patellar Tendonitis
Although painful, Patellar Tendonitis does not normally require surgical intervention. The best way to treat the condition is through a combination of rest, anti-inflammatory medication and ice packs to reduce any swelling. If you experience knee pain, it is important to stop whatever activity you are doing. Keeping the knee elevated can also help to alleviate swelling. A physiotherapist will be able to recommend stretching and strengthening exercises to prevent a recurrence. Don’t ignore the early signs of Patellar Tendonitis as the condition may worsen and lead to more serious knee problems.
If simple at-home treatments don’t resolve the problem, you may be offered a painkilling injection of corticosteroids into the knee joint or platelet-rich plasma injections to promote healing. In rare cases, surgical debridement of the patellar tendon may be needed.
Preventing Patellar Tendonitis
One of the causes of patellar tendonitis is weak or tight thigh muscles. A physiotherapist can recommend exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles to prevent strain on the patella tendon. Regular stretching can help to lengthen the muscles and tendons and reduce spasms. If you visit the gym, the leg press can help to strengthen the thigh muscles.
You may need some professional coaching to improve your technique and you should always warm up and cool down thoroughly before exercise. Wear supportive and well-fitting running shoes, which should be replaced if they become damaged. A patellar tendon strap may help to relieve pain by directing force away from your tendon. If you experience knee pain, rest and use ice to relieve swelling. Don’t resume sporting activity until your knee feels better.
