Jumper’s Knee: Understanding Patellar Tendinitis

Jumper’s knee, also known as patellar tendinitis or patellar tendinopathy, is a common overuse injury that affects athletes who engage in sports involving frequent jumping, running, and rapid directional changes. This condition primarily impacts the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia).

Causes and Risk Factors

Jumper’s knee typically develops due to repetitive stress on the patellar tendon, causing small tears and inflammation. Athletes participating in sports such as basketball, volleyball, track and field, and soccer are particularly susceptible to this injury. Risk factors include:

– Frequent jumping and landing
– Sudden increases in training intensity or volume
– Playing on hard surfaces
– Muscle imbalances or tightness
– Poor biomechanics

Symptoms

The primary symptom of jumper’s knee is pain below the kneecap, which may worsen during physical activity. Other common signs include:

– Swelling around the knee joint
– Stiffness, especially after periods of inactivity
– Pain when climbing stairs or bending the knee
– Tenderness when pressing on the patellar tendon

Diagnosis

Healthcare providers typically diagnose jumper’s knee through a combination of:

– Physical examination
– Medical history review
– Imaging tests (X-rays or MRI) if necessary

Treatment Options

Treatment for jumper’s knee usually begins with conservative approaches:

1. Rest and activity modification
2. Ice therapy to reduce pain and inflammation
3. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
4. Physical therapy, including strengthening and stretching exercises
5. Patellar tendon strap or supportive taping

In more severe cases or when conservative treatments fail, additional interventions may be considered:

– Corticosteroid injections (used cautiously due to potential tendon weakening)
– Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
– Extracorporeal shockwave therapy
– Surgery (in rare cases)

Prevention Strategies

To help prevent jumper’s knee, athletes should:

– Gradually increase training intensity and volume
– Incorporate proper warm-up and cool-down routines
– Maintain good lower body strength and flexibility
– Use appropriate footwear and orthotics if necessary
– Practice proper landing techniques
– Cross-train with low-impact activities

Rehabilitation and Return to Sport

Rehabilitation for jumper’s knee often involves a progressive exercise program focusing on eccentric quadriceps strengthening. This may include:

– Squats and lunges
– Step-downs
– Leg press exercises

The timeline for returning to sport varies depending on the severity of the condition and individual healing rates. Athletes should work closely with their healthcare providers and physical therapists to ensure a safe and gradual return to activity.

Long-term Outlook

With proper treatment and management, most cases of jumper’s knee resolve within a few weeks to months. However, some athletes may experience chronic symptoms or recurrence, emphasizing the importance of ongoing prevention strategies and proper training techniques.

Jumper’s knee can be a frustrating injury for athletes, but with early recognition, appropriate treatment, and preventive measures, many can successfully return to their sport and maintain long-term knee health. It is crucial for athletes experiencing persistent knee pain to consult with a sports medicine physician or orthopedic specialist for proper diagnosis and tailored treatment plans.

Contact Dines Orthopedics Today

Contact Dines Orthopedics today if you’re experiencing pain in your knee due to patellar tendonitis, a common condition among athletes who jump in jumping sports. This injury, also called patellar tendonitis, often occurs as a result of repeated stress on your patellar tendon, especially when changing direction or engaging in a rigorous training program. A thorough physical exam is essential for assessing the condition, as tendinosis can develop from the overuse that frequently accompanies sports injuries.

It’s crucial to rest the knee and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain, which typically manifests after a lot of jumping. If you’re an athlete suffering from tears in the patellar tendon, our team can guide you through the treatment of patellar tendon injuries. We can also discuss surgical treatment options if necessary. Give us a call or visit our website.