Patellar Tendinitis

Patellar Tendinitis is inflammation of the patellar (knee) tendon. This tendon connects the patella (kneecap) to the lower leg bone (tibia).

Causes

Patellar Tendinitis occurs from overuse of the knee tendon. Overuse may be caused by any activity that requires:
  • Intense running
  • Jumping
  • Frequent stops and starts
  • Frequent impact to the knee
Patellar Tendinitis is more common in the following sports:
  • Basketball
  • Soccer
  • Volleyball
  • Running

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease, condition or injury.
  • An increase in the frequency of training
  • A sudden increase in the intensity of training
  • Changing from one sport to another
  • Training on a hard surface
  • Repeated improper movements while training
  • Muscle weakness or imbalance

Symptoms

Symptoms include:
  • Pain and tenderness in the patellar tendon below the knee
  • Pain or tightness in the knee when bending, squatting, or straightening the leg
  • Discomfort in the knee when jumping, running, or walking

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms, physical activity, and how the injury occurred. The doctor will also examine your knee, and may ask you to perform certain movements.
Tests may include:
  • X-ray – to rule out other conditions that may be causing your symptoms

Treatment

Treatment includes:
Ice – Apply ice or a cold pack to the knee for 15-20 minutes, every 4 hours, for 2-3 days. Wrap the ice or cold pack in a towel. Do not apply the ice directly to your skin.
Medication – Take one of the following drugs to help reduce inflammation and pain:
  • Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)
  • Naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn)
  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
  • Aspirin
Infra-patellar Strap – This strap (also called a counterforce brace) can help support the tendon and reduce pain. It is worn as a band just below the knee.
Physical Therapy – Physical therapy will help:
  • Stretch and condition the quadriceps muscle, which attaches to the patella
  • Maintain muscle strength, flexibility, and endurance
Cortisone Injections – If the treatments above do not reduce inflammation, some doctors may recommend cortisone injections. Check with your doctor to determine what is best in your case.
Resuming Exercise – Return to high-impact physical activity gradually. Sufficient healing has occurred when:
  • The knee can bend and straighten without pain.
  • You are able to jump on the injured leg without pain.
  • You are able to jog in a straight line without pain.
  • Swelling is gone.
  • Normal strength of the quadriceps muscles has returned.
Surgery – Surgery may be necessary if there is:
  • Advanced inflammatory damage to the tendon
  • Little or no response to other treatments over a 6-12 month period
During surgery, the damaged portion of the patella tendon will be removed through a small incision in the skin. Eventually, scar tissue will form and repair this damaged area.

Prevention

Patellar Tendinitis may be prevented by:
  • Avoiding activities and sports that repeatedly stress the kneecaps
  • Increasing the frequency and intensity of exercise gradually