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UK Orthopaedics
Health Information
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Patellar Tendonitis (Jumper's Knee)
Description
Patellar tendonitis is inflammation and pain at the patellar tendon (the tendon
below the kneecap). This is the tendon attachment of the quadriceps (thigh)
muscles to the leg. This tendon is important in straightening the knee or
slowing the knee during bending or squatting. This is usually a grade 1 or 2
strain of the tendon. A grade 1 strain is a mild strain. There is a slight pull without obvious tearing (it is microscopic tendon tearing). There is no loss of strength, and the tendon is the correct length. A grade 2 strain is a moderate strain. There is tearing of tendon fibers within the substance of the tendon or at the bone-tendon junction. The length of the tendon is usually increased, and there is decreased strength. A grade 3 strain is a complete rupture of the tendon.
Common Signs and Symptoms
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Pain, tenderness, swelling, warmth or redness over the patellar tendon, most
often at the bottom portion of the patella (kneecap) or at the tibial tubercle
(bump on the upper part of the lower leg)
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Pain and loss of strength (occasionally) with forcefully straightening the knee (especially when jumping or when rising from a seated or squatting position) or bending the knee completely (squatting or kneeling)
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Crepitation (a crackling sound) when the tendon is moved or touched
Treatment
Initial treatment consists of ice to relieve the pain, stretching and strengthening exercises of the quadriceps and hamstring muscles, and modification of the activity that initially caused the problem. These all can be carried out at home, although referral to a physical therapist or athletic trainer for further evaluation and treatment may be helpful. An arch support (orthotic) or a patellar tendon brace may be prescribed to reduce stress to the tendon. Surgery to remove the inflamed tendon lining or degenerated tendon tissue is rarely necessary and is only considered after at least 6 months of adequate rehabilitation and rest.
 More on Jumper's Knee
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