Patellar Tendinitis

Patellar Tendinitis

Patellar tendinitis, also known as “jumper’s knee” is an inflammation of the patellar tendon that connects your kneecap (patella) to your shinbone. This tendon helps in extension of the lower leg. Patellar tendinitis usually results from repetitive trauma or overuse, particularly from sports activities involving jumping such as basketball or volleyball. Therefore, this condition is also known as jumper’s knee. Rarely, this condition may also occur because of an acute injury to the tendon that has not healed properly.

Pain over the patellar tendon is the first symptom of patellar tendinitis. You may also have pain during activities, especially jumping or kneeling. Rarely, swelling around the tendon may be seen.

An evaluation will be done on your condition based on the symptoms and physical examination. X-ray of the knee may be taken to make sure there is no problem involving the bones or bone spur around the knee. An MRI scan can reveal degenerative changes in the patellar tendon.

Symptoms

• Instability
• Locked joint
• Deformity
• Bruising
• Fracture

Treatments

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to provide relief from pain and swelling associated with patellar tendinitis.

Stretching out before exercising is important to prevent recurrence of patellar tendinitis. These exercises can also help strengthen the patellar tendon and nearby muscles such as the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles

Application of ice to the affected area helps to control the inflammation and reduce the swelling.

A knee support or strap (called an infrapatellar strap can be worn to relieve pain by directing the force away from your tendon and into the strap.

Iontophoresis is a topical corticosteroid medication is applied to the affected area with the help of a small device that uses an electric charge to deliver the medication through your skin.

Corticosteroid injection with the guidance of an ultrasound, corticosteroid injection may be given directly into the sheath around the affected patellar tendon. This helps to relieve pain and perform strength exercises without any pain.

Please Note: In rare cases, such as when there is persistent pain despite of the other treatment options, surgery may be considered.