Patellar tendonitis
Patellar tendonitis, also known as jumper’s knee, is a condition when the patellar tendon becomes inflamed.
This tendon connects the knee cap to the shin and is important in facilitating with extension or straightening the knee. Jumper’s knee is typically caused by sports related overuse injury, such as repetitive jumping on hard surfaces. Symptoms include pain, swelling and tenderness around the patellar tendon. Symptoms are reproduced with activities such as jumping, running, walking, squatting and kneeling.
Patellar tendonitis can be diagnosed clinically. Other investigations, such as xrays, ultrasound and MRI imaging may also be helpful. Treatment is primarily nonsurgical. Nonoperative treatment includes rest, ice application, activity modification, elevation, physiotherapy, oral or topical anti-inflammatories or analgesia, and bracing. Surgical management is typically not warranted.
