What is Patellar Tendinitis and How Does It Affect Your Knees?

Introduction

Patellar tendinitis is a common knee problem. Many people call it “jumper’s knee.” This condition happens when the tendon connecting your kneecap to your shinbone becomes inflamed. The patellar tendon helps you straighten your leg. Because of this, patellar tendinitis can make daily activities hard. Athletes, especially those who jump often, are at higher risk. However, anyone can develop this injury. Understanding patellar tendinitis is important for early care and quick recovery.

Symptoms

Patellar tendinitis often starts with mild pain. Over time, the pain can get worse. You may notice symptoms like:

Pain below the kneecap, especially during activity

Swelling or tenderness around the knee

Stiffness when bending or straightening the leg

Weakness in the knee

Pain that worsens with jumping, running, or climbing stairs

Sometimes, the pain may continue even when you rest. If you notice these signs, it is wise to pay attention early.

Causes and Risk Factors

Patellar tendinitis develops when the patellar tendon is overused. Repeated stress can cause tiny tears in the tendon. Over time, these tears lead to pain and swelling. Several factors can increase your risk, such as:

Playing sports that involve jumping, like basketball or volleyball

Sudden increase in physical activity

Weak thigh muscles

Tight leg muscles

Improper footwear

Hard playing surfaces

In addition, being overweight can put extra stress on your knees. Age may also play a role, as tendons lose strength over time.

Diagnosis

Doctors diagnose patellar tendinitis by asking about your symptoms and examining your knee. They may press on the tendon to check for pain. Sometimes, they will ask you to move your leg in different ways. In some cases, your doctor may order tests, such as:

X-rays: To rule out bone problems

MRI or ultrasound: To see tendon damage

Early diagnosis helps prevent further injury. Therefore, it is important to see a doctor if knee pain does not improve.

Treatment Options

Treating patellar tendinitis usually starts with simple steps. Most people recover without surgery. Common treatment options include:

Rest: Avoid activities that cause pain

Ice: Apply ice packs to reduce swelling

Pain relievers: Use medicines like acetaminophen or ibuprofen

Physical therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises for the knee

Supportive braces: Knee straps or braces can help reduce stress on the tendon

In rare cases, doctors may suggest injections or surgery. However, most people recover with proper care. According to the CDC, early treatment leads to better outcomes.

Prevention and Lifestyle Tips

Preventing patellar tendinitis is possible with a few simple steps. Here are some tips to protect your knees:

Warm up before exercise

Stretch your legs after activity

Strengthen your thigh and leg muscles

Wear proper shoes for your sport

Increase activity levels slowly

Use soft surfaces when possible

Additionally, keeping a healthy weight can reduce knee stress. If you feel pain, take a break and let your knee rest.

When to See a Doctor

Sometimes, knee pain does not go away with rest. If you notice these signs, you should see a doctor:

Pain that lasts more than a few days

Swelling that does not improve

Difficulty moving your knee

Pain that gets worse with activity

Early medical care can prevent more serious problems. Therefore, do not ignore ongoing knee pain.

Conclusion

Patellar tendinitis can affect anyone, but early care helps recovery. With rest, therapy, and healthy habits, most people heal well. For the best results, consult an orthopedic specialist for personalized advice.