Knee Pain? Patellar Tendonitis Could be the Culprit

Is Patellar Tendonitis Causing Your Knee Pain?

Patellar tendonitis, or Jumper’s Knee, is an overuse injury affecting your knee.  It is the result of your patella tendon being overstressed.  The tendon that connects the patella (kneecap) to the shinbone helps the leg kick, jump and run.  Excessive jumping or landing can strain the patella tendon.  In the beginning, the damage may only be minor, but if the tendon is repeatedly strained, the damage may progressively worsen causing pain and potentially resulting in patellar tendonitis.

Signs and Symptoms of Patellar Tendonitis

• Pain made worse when jumping, landing or running
• Pain during every day activities
• Pain when sitting for long periods of time
• Pain when you bend or straighten the leg
• Tenderness behind the kneecap
• Localized tenderness over the patella tendon
• The tendon feels very stiff first thing in the morning
• Swelling over the tendon

How is Patellar Tendonitis Treated?

Treatment for patellar tendonitis may include:

• Strengthening and stretching the quadriceps muscles
• Anti-inflammatories
• Icing
• Reduce or avoid activities to allow the tendon to heal
• Physical therapy
• Knee support or a knee strap to reduce pain and ease the strain on the tendon

How Can I Prevent Patellar Tendonitis?

It may help to prevent the risk of developing patellar tendonitis by:

• Strengthening your thigh muscles
• Stretching before and after exercising
• Wear shoes that fit properly and are right for the activity

If you have knee pain and think it may be patellar tendonitis, consult your doctor immediately.  Above and Beyond Physical Therapy  provides gentle stretching and strengthening exercises to help restore the normal tension relationship between muscles and tendons.  Talk to one of our physical therapists today about how you can build leg strength to protect your knees.

For healthy living tips, pain relief tips and Above & Beyond news, follow us on Facebook!