Patellar Tendinopathy

Patellar tendinopathy, also known as jumper's knee, is a medical condition characterized by inflammation and degeneration of the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia). This condition is common among athletes who participate in sports that involve jumping, such as basketball, volleyball, and soccer.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of patellar tendinopathy is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to repetitive strain on the patellar tendon, leading to micro-tears and inflammation. Risk factors for developing patellar tendinopathy include:

• Overuse or repetitive jumping and landing
• Poor training techniques or inadequate warm-up and cool-down routines
• Weak quadriceps muscles
• Tight or inflexible leg muscles
• Abnormalities in the alignment of the kneecap or leg bones
• Previous injuries to the knee or patellar tendon

Symptoms

The symptoms of patellar tendinopathy may include:

• Pain and tenderness in the front of the knee, just below the kneecap
• Swelling and inflammation in the affected area
• Stiffness and limited mobility in the knee
• Pain when jumping, landing, or climbing stairs
• Pain when straightening the knee against resistance

Diagnosis

Diagnosing patellar tendinopathy typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests. A doctor may:

• Perform a physical examination to assess knee mobility and pain
• Review the patient's medical history to identify potential risk factors
• Order imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI scans to visualize the patellar tendon and surrounding tissues

Treatment

Treatment for patellar tendinopathy usually involves a combination of conservative measures and physical therapy. Conservative measures may include:

• Rest and avoidance of activities that aggravate the condition
• Ice and compression to reduce pain and inflammation
• Elevation of the affected leg to reduce swelling
• Pain relief medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen

Physical therapy may include exercises to strengthen the quadriceps muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance knee mobility. In some cases, more invasive treatments such as corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary.

Prevention

To prevent patellar tendinopathy, athletes can take several steps:

• Warm up and cool down properly before and after exercise
• Incorporate stretching and strengthening exercises into their training routine
• Avoid overtraining and allow for adequate rest and recovery time
• Use proper technique when jumping and landing
• Wear supportive footwear and orthotics as needed