Patellar Tendon Pain

By Tim Wall MS/ATC

What is Patellar Tendon Pain or Jumper’s Knee?

This condition is characterized by localized pain just below the patella, or kneecap, along the patellar tendon. True “Tendon-ITIS”, is associated with an acute inflammation of the tendon tissue following activity. More chronic cases, with symptoms lasting for over 4-6 weeks, should more accurately be classified as “Tendon-OSIS”. In these cases true inflammation is no longer present.  Instead the tendon is actually degenerating at the fiber and cellular levels. This tendinosis is usually what physicians and physical therapists at Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute see in their offices.

How Do You Get Patellar Tendon Pain?

Typically, the athlete will present with pain following repetitive, forceful contractions of the quadriceps muscles. The repetitive jumping demands of basketball or plyometric exercises are frequent causes of this condition. Eccentric contractions, contractions of the muscle while it is lengthening, that are sustained while running downhill or doing “negative reps” in the gym, can also cause these condition. Like most overuse conditions, ignoring the early signs of discomfort while doing these activities will contribute to its development.

Do I Have Jumper’s Knee? 

Athletes will complain of pain just below the bottom of the kneecap, or patella, along the patellar tendon. Initially, pain will be present at the onset of activity, will often subside during, and then return following completion of activity. More chronic cases will be painful with any quadriceps contraction. There may be swelling present over the patellar tendon. Over time, the tendon will be visually be thicker than the other knee.

I Have It. Now What?

Acute cases of tendonitis can be managed with one-two weeks of rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications. A counterforce strap brace that off-loads the tendon can be helpful with pain during activity while stretching of the hip and thigh musculature, especially the quadriceps can help to prevent its return and progression. Chronic cases of patellar tendinosis need more intensive treatment from a medical professional and may often take months to resolve completely. Aggressive soft-tissue massage such as the Graston Technique are effective interventions to help kick start the regenerative processes of healing. A specific and progressive eccentric strengthening program designed by a medical professional also helps to remodel and strengthen the degenerative tendon.

JOI and JOI Rehab Treatment Plans

All JOI Physicians and Physical Therapists offer comprehensive treatment plans for patients with patellar tendon pain.  This would start with a thorough evaluation by an orthopedic physician and a physical therapist.  Many times, patellar tendon pain is from a muscle weakness or lack of flexibility.  It is so important to strengthen the VMO of the quad. 

The second part of the rehab process involves the stretching of the structures on the outside of the knee and the quad itself.  We can show you how to stretch your hamstrings and the IT Band.

• Finally, to schedule an appointment for physical or occupational therapy, call 904-858-7045 or visit 12 area JOI Rehab Centers.
• Related Articles: IT Band Syndrome/Tightness,
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• Cardio Exercises for Bad Knees

JOI and JOI Rehab

JOI Physicians continue to offer online new patient appointments. This is another option to make it more convenient to make new patient appointments with less phone hold times. Follow the link below to select your JOI MD and schedule online.

You can still call 904-JOI-2000 to make new patient JOI Physician Appointments if that is your preference.

To make appointments with JOI Rehab, please call 904-858-7045.

By: Tim Wall MS, ATC