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Bioevolve, Dr Mary Ambach, Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Orthobiologics, Encinitas, San Diego, Carlsbad, CA // Conditions Treated // Knee // Conditions // Patellar Tendonitis

Patellar tendonitis, also known as "jumper's knee", is an inflammation of the patellar tendon that connects your kneecap (patella) to your shinbone. This tendon helps in extension of the lower leg.

Causes

Patellar tendonitis usually results from repetitive trauma or overuse, particularly from sports activities involving jumping such as basketball or volleyball. Therefore, this condition is also known as jumper’s knee. Rarely, this condition may also occur because of an acute injury to the tendon that has not healed properly.

Picture of Patellar Tendonitis

Symptoms

Pain over the patellar tendon is the first symptom of patellar tendinitis. You may also have pain during activities, especially jumping or kneeling. Rarely, swelling around the tendon may be seen.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will evaluate your condition based on your symptoms and physical examination. X-ray of the knee may be taken to make sure there is no problem involving the bones or bone spurs around the knee. An MRI scan can reveal degenerative changes in the patellar tendon.

Conservative Treatment Options

Treatment options for patellar tendinitis include:

  • Rest the injured knee and avoid activities such as running and jumping that worsen the condition
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to provide relief from pain and swelling associated with patellar tendinitis
  • Stretching out before exercising is important to prevent recurrence of patellar tendinitis. These exercises can also help strengthen the patellar tendon and nearby muscles such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles
  • Application of ice to the affected area helps to control the inflammation and reduce the swelling
  • A knee support or strap (called an intrapatellar strap or a Chopat strap) can be worn to relieve pain by directing the force away from your tendon and into the strap
  • Shockwave therapy can help proveide immediate relief and stimulate the healign response
  • Corticosteroid injection may be helpful for surrounding bursitis if present, but not to be injected to the substance of the tendon for risk of further damage.