Patellar Tendinopathy
Patellar tendinopathy, also known as jumper's knee, is a common overuse injury affecting the tendon that connects your kneecap (patella) to your shinbone (tibia). This tendon is crucial for extending your knee, which is essential for activities like jumping, running, and kicking. When it becomes inflamed or irritated, it can cause significant pain and discomfort, affecting mobility and quality of life. The involvement of this tendon in an overuse-related degeneration can weaken knee movements and restrict range of motion, potentially impacting the stability of the patella as well.
What Causes Patellar Tendinopathy?
The primary cause of patellar tendinopathy is repetitive stress on the patellar tendon, often linked to overuse from activities such as jumping and landing in sports. Other contributing factors include:
- Muscle imbalances
- Tight hamstrings
- Poor training techniques
- Sudden intense increases in physical activities
- Repetitive intense knee movements
- Inadequate rest
Recognizing the Symptoms
Common symptoms of patellar tendinopathy include:
- Pain and tenderness at the front of your knee, particularly below the kneecap
- Worsening pain with activity, improving with rest
- Stiffness and swelling in the knee
- A feeling of weakness in the knee
- Extreme sensitivity to touch below the kneecap
Seeking Diagnosis and Treatment
If you suspect patellar tendinopathy, it's important to consult an Orthopaedic surgeon. They may:
- Conduct a physical examination
- Recommend imaging tests like X-rays, ultrasonography, or MRI to confirm the diagnosis
Treatment typically begins with conservative measures, including:
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE)
- Physical therapy exercises to strengthen surrounding muscles and improve flexibility
- Orthotics or bracing for additional support
It is advisable to pursue physical therapy under the supervision of your treating doctor, often in collaboration with a physiotherapist.
Preventing Patellar Tendinopathy
While prevention isn't always possible, you can reduce your risk by:
- Gradually increasing the intensity and duration of physical activities under supervision
- Incorporating strength and flexibility exercises into your routine, ideally guided by trained personnel
- Warming up properly before and cooling down after exercise
- Wearing well-fitted knee orthotics for support
- Addressing any muscle imbalances promptly
- Utilizing doctor-prescribed nutritional support for tendon health
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for effectively managing patellar tendinopathy. If you experience persistent knee pain, don't hesitate to seek professional medical advice.
