Understanding Patellar Tendinitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Patellar tendinitis is a common knee injury that affects athletes and active individuals. It is also known as jumper's knee, as it frequently affects athletes who participate in jumping sports such as basketball, volleyball, and track and field. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms, causes, and treatment of patellar tendinitis.

Symptoms of Patellar Tendinitis

The most common symptom of patellar tendinitis is pain in the front of the knee, just below the kneecap. The pain may be mild at first and worsen over time. Other symptoms may include stiffness and swelling in the knee, as well as difficulty walking or running.

Causes of Patellar Tendinitis

Patellar tendinitis is caused by overuse of the knee joint, which can lead to tiny tears in the patellar tendon. This can be due to repetitive jumping or running, or from sudden increases in training intensity or volume. Individuals who have flat feet, tight muscles, or weak quadriceps muscles may also be at increased risk for patellar tendinitis.

Treatment for Patellar Tendinitis

The first step in treating patellar tendinitis is to rest the affected knee and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. Ice and compression can help to reduce swelling and pain, while anti-inflammatory medications can help to reduce inflammation. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help stretch and strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged tendon.

1. Rest and Avoiding Activities: Resting the knee and avoiding activities that cause pain can help to reduce symptoms.
2. Icing and Compression: Applying ice and compression to the affected knee can help to reduce swelling and pain.
3. Medications: Anti-inflammatory medications can help to reduce inflammation and pain.
4. Physical Therapy: Physical therapy can help to stretch and strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee.
5. Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged tendon.

In conclusion, patellar tendinitis is a common knee injury that can be caused by overuse of the knee joint. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, and swelling in the front of the knee. Treatment may include rest, ice and compression, medications, physical therapy, and in severe cases, surgery. If you are experiencing symptoms of patellar tendinitis, it is important to seek medical attention to receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.