Tretament for Patellar (Kneecap) Tendonitis - Jumper's Knee

Patellar tendonitis is an overuse injury sustained to the connective tendon that joins the patella - also known as the kneecap - to your shinbone (tibia). The function of the patellar tendon is to trigger the muscles at the front of the thigh so that your knee is able to extend, resulting in the ability to run and jump. Patellar tendonitis is also called "jumper's knee," in reference to the activities that often instigate injury to the patellar tendon, such as basketball. As repeated stress is placed on the patellar tendon, small tears are made that cause swelling and discomfort.

The first and most common symptom of patellar tendonitis is pain between the patella (kneecap) and the tibia (shinbone). In its early stages, patellar tendonitis might only be felt while warming up for a physical activity that activates the tendon, or following rigorous exercise. Eventually, as the patellar tendon continues to wear, it causes more and more pain and may ultimately affect daily activities, like rising from a chair or ascending stairs.

Common treatments for patellar tendonitis generally begin with non-invasive forms of treatment, provided by Dr. Reisch at the Encino Orthopedics Center in the San Fernando Valley. These may include medication, physical therapy, stretching and strengthening exercises, and rest for the affected knee. Other nonsurgical treatment approaches for patellar tendonitis include a brace/strap that helps redistribute the pressure applied to the tendon through daily activity. In severe cases of patellar tendonitis, orthopedic surgery may be required to appropriately repair the damaged tendon. However, examination by Dr. Reisch. Founder of Encino Orthopedics Center is essential in determining the severity of a patellar tendonitis injury.