About Patellar Tendonitis: “Jumpers Knee”
Patellar tendonitis, also known as "Jumper's Knee", is a common injury or inflammation that occurs at the patella (kneecap) to your tibia (shinbone).
Patellar tendonitis can be experienced by anyone, but is particularly common amongst athletes that jump regularly.
In this post, we will be identifying what patellar tendonitis is, what causes it and what can be done do to prevent this from happening in the future.
How Does Patellar Tendonitis Occur?
The repetitive stress on the knee causes tiny tears and cuts. These tears and cuts eventually become inflamed and weaken the tendon structure.
Leg muscles tightening
One of the legs being stronger than the other
Misalignments (legs, feet or thigh) structure in any manner
Obesity
Poor shoes padding
Walking on hard surfaces consistently
Chronic diseases that weaken the tendon
Symptoms of Patellar Tendonitis
1. Pain & Tenderness
Individuals typically experience pain and tenderness at the base of the kneecap. The tenderness can be a sign of inflammation. In certain cases, the patient’s kneecaps swells and causes a burning sensation.
2. Sporadic Pain
Individuals may only experience the pain and swelling after physical activity. After an extended period of time, damage to the tendon increases and the pain becomes more consistent.
Getting it checked out
When getting checked out for patellar tendonitis, your doctor will examine the knee by probing to pinpoint the pain and identify the knees motion range by folding and extending the leg. For in-depth evaluation, you doctor may require to run additional diagnostics that may include the following:
X-ray Testing
An X-ray test may help to identify any possibilities of the pain associated to a kneecap fracture or kneecap displacement.
MRI Scanning
You may need to have an MRI scan. MRI scanning will show any possible damage to the soft tissue.
Ultrasound Scanning
Running an ultrasound test may reveal and help identify soft tissue regions that are torn, unhealed, or damaged in any manner.
How to Treat Patellar Tendonitis?
Patients are usually instructed to rest their leg and avoid activities that puts pressure on the knee.
Medication
In some acceptable cases, your doctor may prescribe OTC medication for short-term pain and swelling. OTC medication stands for “over-the-counter-medication”. This simply means that you do not need a doctor’s written prescription for such general drug. Here are a few that can help to reduce pain and swelling;
Ibuprofen
Naproxen sodium
Acetaminophen
Corticosteroid Injection
Corticosteroids injections are an effective method for pain relief and to reduce swelling around the knee. However, it has been concluded that corticosteroid injections may be responsible for the weakening of tendons, making them vulnerable to rupture.
Patellar tendonitis is a progressive condition meaning it worsens over time.
At the first signs of pain or discomfort, individuals should consult with a doctor. Through testing, you may be able to stop drastic progression of the injury.