Patellar tendonitis/tendinopathy (jumper’s knee)
Patellar tendinopathy (tendintis or jumper’s knee) describes pain in the patellar tendon – a band of tissue connecting the kneecap (patella) to the shin bone (tibia).
How is it caused?
It’s usually caused by repetitive impact activities such as jumping or running.
What are the symptoms?
Patients experience pain just beneath the kneecap during activities such as jumping, running, kicking and squatting.
How is it diagnosed?
A diagnosis made during a medical examination can be backed up with an MRI scan or ultrasound scan.
How is it treated?
Treatment usually starts with a course of physiotherapy, although this is often combined with an ultrasound guided injection into the tendon. If this does not relieve your symptoms, effective treatment can be more difficult but may include further injections, shockwave therapy or surgery.
Important: This information is only a guideline to help you understand your treatment and what to expect. Everyone is different and your rehabilitation may be quicker or slower than other people’s. Please contact us for advice if you’re worried about any aspect of your health or recovery.
