Patellar tendonitis, also known as jumper’s knee, is a common overuse injury that affects the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia). This condition is often seen in athletes who participate in sports that require jumping or repetitive jumping movements, such as basketball, volleyball, or track and field.
The cause of patellar tendonitis is repeated stress on the patellar tendon, which can lead to small tears in the tendon and inflammation. This stress can be caused by a number of factors, including:
The symptoms of patellar tendonitis can vary in severity, but typically include:
To diagnose patellar tendonitis, a doctor will typically perform a physical examination of the affected knee, including checking for pain, swelling, and range of motion. The doctor may also order imaging tests, such as an X-ray or MRI, to evaluate the extent of the injury and rule out other potential causes of knee pain.
The treatment for patellar tendonitis will depend on the severity of the injury. In most cases, conservative treatment methods may be sufficient to manage symptoms and promote healing. These treatments may include:
In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or remove damaged tissue in the patellar tendon. This is typically only recommended when conservative treatments have not been effective.
To prevent patellar tendonitis, athletes can take steps to reduce their risk of injury, including:
Patellar tendonitis can be a painful and frustrating injury, but with proper diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, most individuals can recover and return to their normal activities. If you are experiencing knee pain or suspect that you may have patellar tendonitis, it is important to seek medical attention and follow a comprehensive treatment plan.