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Welcome to joionline.net, your trusted source for information on patellar tendonitis. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of this common knee condition, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Whether you are experiencing pain in your knee or simply want to learn more about patellar tendonitis, you've come to the right place. JOI and JOI Rehab are Northeast Florida's most experienced orthopedic practice. Discover effective strategies for preventing and recovering from patellar tendonitis in this article from a trusted JOI Rehab Physical Therapist
One of the most commonly overused musculoskeletal injuries is patellar tendonitis. This is also referred to as “Jumper's Knee.” Patellar tendonitis is associated with a localized pain in your patellar tendon. This is just below your kneecap mostly due to overuse. This disorder occurs in both recreational and elite athletes. It is the stressing of the tendon excessively causing pain and limited activity. The quadriceps, located at your upper leg anteriorly, attaches to the kneecap, which then continues via the patellar tendon to attach to the tibial tubercle (the bony bumps below your kneecap). This unique mechanism allows an increase in the lever arm to produce more power/force to extend the knee. That is why patellar tendonitis rehabilitation is so important if you have this condition.
Patellar Tendon
It is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in the patellar tendon. The patellar tendon is the thick band of tissue that connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia). It plays a crucial role in the movement of the knee joint, especially during activities that involve jumping or running.
The main cause of patellar tendonitis is repetitive stress on the patellar tendon. This can occur due to activities that involve frequent jumping, such as basketball, volleyball, or high-impact exercises. Overuse, improper technique, or sudden increase in intensity or duration of physical activities can also contribute to the development of patellar tendonitis.
The symptoms of patellar tendonitis typically include pain, tenderness, and swelling around the kneecap. The pain is often worse during activities that involve bending the knee or putting pressure on the tendon. In some cases, there may be a noticeable weakness in the knee or difficulty in fully straightening the leg.
Image of a runner.
Patellar tendonitis relates to excessive stress to the tendon due to multiple factors. Repetitive jumping, running, and squatting are the most common activity that relates to patellar tendonitis. Factors that contribute to the development of this overuse injury involve:
An individual increases these factors by not getting adequate rest. Lack of adequate rest does not give the body time to adapt. This will increase the possibility of developing pain. Obesity should also be considered due to constant excessive stress during everyday movements. These movements include getting out of a chair, kneeling, squatting, etc.
Other major risk factors include:
If you choose to go to a JOI Rehab Center, the program we have for patellar tendonitis rehabilitation will include a personalized program to get you back to the activities you love.
If you are experiencing symptoms such as knee pain, swelling, or difficulty performing activities that involve jumping or bending the knee, it is important to seek a proper diagnosis. An examination by a medical professional is indicated to receive proper care necessary to prevent a chronic issue. Typically, you will be referred to a physical therapist. He or she will complete a thorough examination to determine the cause of your pain and treat those impairments. Usually, localized pain at the patellar tendon is common during movements including squatting, getting out of a chair, and especially with high-intensity movements. Most commonly pain can be only reported during activity with no pain at rest. If the pain is severe enough it can be constant during the day and even at rest.
Diagnosing patellar tendonitis usually involves a combination of a thorough physical examination and medical history review. Your healthcare provider will start by asking about your symptoms, when they started, and any recent activities that may have contributed to the development of the condition.
During the physical examination, your doctor will assess the affected knee, looking for signs of swelling, tenderness, or deformities. They may also evaluate your range of motion and perform specific tests to assess the integrity of the patellar tendon.
In some cases, imaging tests may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other possible causes of your symptoms. Ultrasound or MRI scans can provide detailed images of the patellar tendon, allowing your doctor to assess its condition and identify any areas of damage or inflammation.
Diagnostic procedures such as ultrasound-guided aspiration or arthroscopy may be necessary in certain cases where the diagnosis remains uncertain or when additional treatment options need to be explored.
It is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and to develop an appropriate treatment plan for patellar tendonitis. Early diagnosis and intervention can help prevent further damage and promote a faster recovery.
Patellar Tendonitis
When it comes to managing and treating patellar tendonitis, there are several options available that can help alleviate pain and promote healing. Let's explore some of the most common treatment approaches:
1. Rest: Taking a break from activities that aggravate the condition is crucial in allowing the tendon to heal. It is important to avoid high-impact exercises and activities that put excessive strain on the patellar tendon.
2. Ice therapy: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. Ice packs or ice massage can be used for about 15-20 minutes, several times a day.
3. Compression: Wearing a compression bandage or patellar strap around the knee can provide support and help reduce swelling. It is important to ensure that the compression is not too tight, as it may restrict circulation.
4. Elevation: Elevating the leg above the heart level can help reduce swelling and promote blood flow to the injured area.
Patellar tendonitis is usually self-limiting, meaning it will resolve on its own with rest, activity modification, and treatment from a Physical Therapist. A great self-care protocol to utilize is the RICE Protocol. This acronym represents:
1. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen sodium can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with patellar tendonitis. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using any medication.
2. Topical creams or gels: Some topical creams or gels can certainly help you. These should be applied according to the instructions provided.
Physical therapy plays a crucial role in the management of patellar tendonitis. A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program to strengthen the muscles around the knee, improve flexibility, and promote proper biomechanics. This may include exercises such as eccentric strengthening, stretching, and proprioceptive training.
It is important to consult a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment options for your specific case of patellar tendonitis. They can provide a comprehensive evaluation and guide you towards the most effective management and treatment strategies.
Non-surgical treatments are successful in treating this condition with participation from the patient to follow steps given to him/her to achieve maximum results.
Treatment begins with avoiding activities that increase the pain to decrease inflammation/pain including running, squatting, jumping, etc. Cryotherapy is indicated for 20-30 minutes 4-6 times daily to decrease inflammation/pain. The application of an ice massage for 5-8 minutes to the site of pain can help reduce your pain as well.
Patellar tendonitis rehabilitation will emphasize stretching certain muscles including hip flexors, hamstrings, ITB to prevent muscle imbalances, which can add unnecessary stress to the patellar tendon. An active warm up is critical prior to activity to increase blood flow to decrease tightness. An emphasis on eccentric loading of the quadriceps is important to develop adequate strength to return to high-intensity activities without pain.
Image of the quad muscles
Preventing patellar tendonitis is crucial for maintaining healthy knees and avoiding pain and discomfort. By following a few simple preventive measures, you can reduce the risk of developing this condition. Additionally, incorporating specific exercises and stretches into your routine can help strengthen the patellar tendon and surrounding muscles, providing added protection.
To prevent patellar tendonitis, it's important to:
In addition to these preventive measures, incorporating specific exercises and stretches can help strengthen the patellar tendon and reduce the risk of injury. Some beneficial exercises and stretches include:
Standing Quad Stretch
By following these preventive measures, incorporating appropriate exercises, and being mindful of your knee health, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing patellar tendonitis and enjoy a pain-free and active lifestyle. Our team of experienced orthopaedic knee specialists will work with you to create a customized treatment plan that meets your specific needs and goals. To schedule with a JOI Knee Physician, please call 904-JOI-2000, schedule online or click below.
To schedule for patellar tendonitis rehabilitation physical therapy at JOI Rehab, please call 904-858-7045.
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