Patellar Tendinitis: Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, and Effective Treatment

What is Patellar Tendinitis?

Patellar tendinitis, also called jumper’s knee, is a common knee injury. It happens when the tendon connecting your kneecap to your shinbone becomes inflamed. This tendon helps you straighten your leg. Often, athletes and active people get patellar tendinitis. However, anyone can develop it. Early care can help prevent long-term problems.

Common Symptoms

Patellar tendinitis causes pain in the front of your knee. Usually, the pain starts slowly. Over time, it may get worse. You may notice these symptoms:

Pain or tenderness just below the kneecap

Swelling around the knee

Stiffness, especially after activity

Weakness in the knee

Pain when jumping, running, or climbing stairs

Sometimes, the pain may feel sharp during activity. But after rest, it may improve. If you notice these jumper’s knee symptoms, it is important to seek help.

Causes and Risk Factors

Patellar tendinitis often results from overuse. Repeated stress on the knee can damage the tendon. For example, jumping, running, or sudden stops can strain the knee. But other factors can also increase your risk:

Playing sports that involve jumping, like basketball or volleyball

Sudden increase in activity level

Weak thigh muscles

Tight leg muscles

Improper footwear

Hard playing surfaces

Additionally, being overweight can put extra stress on your knees. Age and previous knee injuries may also raise your risk.

Diagnosis Methods

Doctors use several methods to diagnose patellar tendinitis. First, your doctor will ask about your symptoms and activity level. Next, they will examine your knee for pain and swelling. Sometimes, they may order tests to confirm the diagnosis. These tests can include:

X-rays: To rule out bone problems

Ultrasound: To check the tendon for damage

MRI: To see detailed images of the knee

Early diagnosis helps prevent further injury. Therefore, do not ignore ongoing knee pain.

Treatment Options

Treatment for patellar tendinitis aims to reduce pain and heal the tendon. Most people recover with simple steps. Your doctor may suggest:

Resting the knee and avoiding activities that cause pain

Applying ice packs to reduce swelling

Taking over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen

Wearing a knee strap for support

Doing gentle stretching and strengthening exercises

Physical therapy to improve movement and strength

In rare cases, if pain does not improve, your doctor may suggest other treatments. These can include injections or surgery. However, most people do not need surgery.

Prevention Tips

You can lower your risk of patellar tendinitis by taking simple steps. Here are some tips on how to prevent patellar tendinitis:

Warm up before exercise

Stretch your legs after activity

Strengthen your thigh and leg muscles

Wear proper shoes with good support

Increase activity levels slowly

Avoid hard surfaces when possible

Moreover, listen to your body. If you feel pain, take a break. Early rest can prevent more serious injury.

Lifestyle and Recovery Guidance

Recovering from patellar tendinitis takes time. But with the right steps, you can heal well. Here are some lifestyle tips for a smooth recovery:

Follow your doctor’s advice closely

Do your physical therapy exercises regularly

Eat a balanced diet to support healing

Stay active with low-impact activities, like swimming or cycling

Gradually return to sports or exercise

Above all, be patient with your progress. Healing may take several weeks or months. But with care, most people return to their normal activities.

If you have knee pain that does not improve, consult an orthopedic specialist at Dr. Jaideep Singh Sardar for personalized advice on patellar tendinitis.