Patellar Tendinitis (Jumper's Knee)

25 Oct

What Is Patellar Tendinitis?

Patellar tendinitis, commonly known as Jumper’s Knee, is a condition that involves inflammation and irritation of the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia). This condition is common in athletes who participate in sports that involve frequent jumping, running, or sudden directional changes, such as basketball, volleyball, and soccer. Overuse of the knee joint leads to tiny tears in the patellar tendon, causing pain and discomfort just below the kneecap. At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we provide expert diagnosis and treatment for patellar tendinitis, helping patients recover from knee pain and return to their activities.

Patellar tendinitis is an overuse injury that occurs when the patellar tendon becomes inflamed or damaged. The patellar tendon plays a crucial role in straightening the knee during activities like jumping, running, and kicking. Repeated stress on the tendon can lead to microtears, inflammation, and weakening of the tissue, which results in pain and limited mobility.

The condition is often seen in athletes and is commonly referred to as “Jumper’s Knee” because it is particularly prevalent in sports that require frequent jumping motions. However, non-athletes can also develop patellar tendinitis due to repetitive stress or strain on the knee joint.

Causes of Patellar Tendinitis

Patellar tendinitis is primarily caused by repetitive stress on the knee joint, but several factors can contribute to the development of this condition. Common causes and risk factors include:

Symptoms of Patellar Tendinitis

The symptoms of patellar tendinitis typically develop gradually and may worsen with continued physical activity. Common signs and symptoms include:

Diagnosis of Patellar Tendinitis

At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, diagnosing patellar tendinitis involves a physical examination and, if necessary, imaging tests to assess the extent of the injury and develop a personalized treatment plan.

1. Physical Examination: The doctor will evaluate the knee joint, checking for tenderness, swelling, and pain during movement. They may ask about your activity level, recent changes in physical activity, and specific symptoms to help identify the cause of the pain.

2. Imaging Tests:

Treatment for Patellar Tendinitis

Treatment for patellar tendinitis at Dr. Burke Orthopedics focuses on relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and allowing the tendon to heal. Both non-surgical and surgical treatment options are available, depending on the severity of the condition.

1. Non-Surgical Treatments:

2. Surgical Treatments: Surgery is rarely required for patellar tendinitis but may be considered if non-surgical treatments do not provide relief after several months. Surgical options include:

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Recovery from patellar tendinitis depends on the severity of the condition and the treatment approach. For non-surgical cases, most patients experience significant improvement within several weeks to months with proper rest and physical therapy.

At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we provide personalized rehabilitation programs tailored to each patient’s needs, ensuring a full recovery and a return to pain-free activity.

Why Choose Dr. Burke Orthopedics for Patellar Tendinitis?

At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we offer expert care for patients with patellar tendinitis, providing both conservative and surgical treatment options based on the severity of the condition. Our team of orthopedic specialists is committed to helping patients relieve pain, restore knee function, and prevent future injuries. With advanced diagnostic tools and personalized treatment plans, we ensure that each patient receives the best possible care for their specific condition. Whether you’re an athlete looking to get back to your sport or someone dealing with knee pain, Dr. Burke Orthopedics is here to guide you through your recovery journey.