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Patellar Tendon (Jumpers Knee)

The patellar tendon (or ligament as it is sometimes called) connects the kneecap to tibia bone. Under extreme stresses such as those involved in jumping a partial rupture can occur. This can often lead to inflammation and degeneration of the tissue. Inflammation can also result from overuse. Injury to this often affects athletes involved in jumping or throwing sports. Weight lifters, Tennis and Badminton players can also be affected. Rest in the early stages is very important.

What are the symptoms?

Pain at the bottom of the kneecap especially when pressing in
Aching and stiffness after exertion
Pain when you contract the quadriceps muscles

What the athlete can do depends on the extent or grade of the injury:

Grade 1: Pain only after training

Continue training but apply ice or cold therapy to the injury after each training session
Wear a heat retainer or support
See a sports injury specialist / therapist who can apply sports massage techniques and advise on rehabilitation. An eccentric strengthening programme is generally recommended

Grade 2: Pain before and after exercise but pain reduces once warmed up

Modify training activities to reduce the load on the tendon. Stop jumping or sprinting activities and replace them with steady running or swimming / running in water if necessary
See a sports injury specialist / therapist who can apply sports massage techniques and advise on rehabilitation

Grade 3: Pain during activity which prevents you from training / performing at your best

Rest completely from the aggravating activity. Replace it with swimming / running in water (if pain allows)
See a sports injury specialist / therapist who can apply sports massage techniques and advise on rehabilitation

Grade 4: Pain during every day activities which may or may not be getting worse

Rest for a long period of time (at least 3 months!).
See a sports injury specialist / therapist who can apply sports massage techniques and advise on rehabilitation
If the knee does not respond to rehabilitation then consult an Orthopaedic Surgeon as surgery may be required

A Sports Injury Specialist or Doctor could:

Prescribe anti-inflammatory medication e.g. ibuprofen
Use ultrasound or laser treatment
Use cross friction massage techniques
Prescribe and supervise a full rehabilitation programme
If the injury becomes chronic then surgery is an option. A lateral release of the patella tendon is usually successful