Patellar Tendonitis (Jumper’s Knee)
What is jumper’s knee?
Jumper’s knee, also known as patellar tendonitis, is a condition characterized by inflammation of the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap to the shin bone (tibia). The condition may be caused by overuse of the knee joint, such as frequent jumping on hard surfaces.
What are the symptoms of jumper’s knee?
The following are the most common symptoms of jumper’s knee. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
- Pain and tenderness around the patellar tendon
- Swelling
- Pain with jumping, running or walking
- Pain with bending or straightening the leg
- Tenderness behind the kneecap
The symptoms of jumper’s knee may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis.
How is jumper’s knee diagnosed?
In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, diagnostic procedures for jumper’s knee may include a radiograph of the knee. This would involve a negative image of the knee, taken with photographic film, using exposure to x-rays or gamma rays passing through matter or tissue in the body.
Treatment for jumper’s knee:
Specific treatment for jumper’s knee will be determined by your physician based on:
- Your age, overall health and medical history
- Extent of the condition
- Your tolerance for specific medications, procedures or therapies
- Expectations for the course of the condition
- Your opinion or preference
The best course of treatment for jumper’s knee is to discontinue any activity that is causing the condition, until the injury is healed. Other treatment may include:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
- Rest
- Ice pack application (to reduce swelling)
- Stretching and strengthening exercises
Patellofemoral Stress Syndrome (Runner’s Knee)
What is runner’s knee?
Runner’s knee, also known as patellofemoral stress syndrome, is a condition characterized by the kneecap rubbing against the thighbone (femur) when moving.
What causes runner’s knee?
Runner’s knee may be caused by a structural defect, or a certain way of walking or running. Other causes may include the following:
- A kneecap that is located too high in the knee joint
- Weak thigh muscles
- Tight hamstrings
- Tight Achilles tendons
- Walking or running with the feet rolling in while the thigh muscles pull the kneecap outward
What are the symptoms of runner’s knee?
The following are the most common symptoms of runner’s knee. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
- Pain in and around the kneecap that may be felt with activity, or even after prolonged sitting with the knees bent, occasionally resulting in weakness or feelings of instability.
- Rubbing, grinding, or clicking sound of the kneecap can be heard at times when the knee is bent and straightened.
- Kneecap is tender to the touch.
The symptoms of runner’s knee may resemble other conditions and medical problems. Always consult your physician for a diagnosis
How is runner’s knee diagnosed?
Diagnosis of a runner’s knee usually is confirmed with a complete medical history and a physical examination.
Treatment for runner’s knee:
Specific treatment for runner’s knee will be determined by your physician based on:
- Your age, overall health and medical history
- Extent of the injury
- Your tolerance for specific medications, procedures or therapies
- Expectations for the course of the injury
- Your opinion or preference
The best course of treatment for runner’s knee is to stop running until running can resume without pain. Other treatment may include:
- Stretch exercises
- Strengthening exercises
- Arch support in shoes