Summary about Disease
Patellar tendinitis, also known as jumper's knee, is an overuse injury affecting the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia). It is characterized by inflammation and pain in the patellar tendon, most commonly occurring in athletes who perform repetitive jumping activities.
Symptoms
Pain between the kneecap and where the tendon attaches to the shinbone.
Pain that worsens with activity, especially jumping or running.
Tenderness to the touch at the bottom of the kneecap.
Stiffness in the knee, especially after exercise or prolonged sitting.
Weakness or giving way of the knee.
Causes
Repetitive Stress: Repeated jumping or high-impact activities, such as basketball, volleyball, and running, are the primary cause.
Muscle Imbalances: Weak thigh muscles (quadriceps) or tight hamstrings can contribute to the strain on the patellar tendon.
Poor Technique: Incorrect jumping or landing techniques can increase stress on the knee joint.
Hard Playing Surfaces: Training or playing on hard surfaces can increase impact forces.
Footwear: Inadequate or worn-out athletic shoes can contribute.
Medicine Used
Pain relievers: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve) can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Corticosteroid injections: In some cases, a doctor may inject corticosteroids into the area around the patellar tendon to relieve pain and inflammation. Use with caution, as they can weaken the tendon.
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections: Some doctors use PRP injections to promote healing in the patellar tendon.
Is Communicable
No, patellar tendinitis is not a communicable disease. It is an overuse injury, not caused by an infectious agent.
Precautions
Proper Warm-up and Stretching: Always warm up thoroughly before exercise and stretch the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles.
Gradual Increase in Activity: Avoid sudden increases in training intensity or duration.
Correct Technique: Ensure proper jumping and landing techniques. Consider consulting with a coach or physical therapist.
Strengthening Exercises: Perform exercises to strengthen the quadriceps, hamstrings, and core muscles.
Appropriate Footwear: Wear supportive athletic shoes that fit well.
Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate the pain.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of patellar tendinitis varies depending on the severity of the condition and the individual's response to treatment. Mild cases may resolve within a few weeks with rest and conservative treatment. More severe cases can take several months or even longer to heal fully. It's important to follow a structured rehabilitation program to prevent recurrence.
How is it diagnosed?
Physical Examination: A doctor will perform a physical examination, assessing the range of motion, tenderness, and stability of the knee.
Medical History: The doctor will ask about the patient's symptoms, activity level, and any previous injuries.
Imaging Tests: X-rays may be taken to rule out other conditions. MRI scans can help to visualize the patellar tendon and identify any tears or inflammation. Ultrasound can also be used to visualize the tendon.
Timeline of Symptoms
Early Stage: Pain is often mild and may only occur after activity.
Mid-Stage: Pain becomes more frequent and may occur during and after activity.
Late Stage: Pain is constant and may interfere with daily activities. The tendon may become thickened and tender to the touch.
Important Considerations
Complete Rehabilitation: It is crucial to complete a full rehabilitation program under the guidance of a physical therapist. This includes stretching, strengthening, and proprioceptive exercises.
Activity Modification: Athletes may need to modify their training schedule or technique to avoid further aggravating the tendon.
Return to Sport: Return to sport should be gradual and supervised by a healthcare professional. Rushing back too quickly can lead to re-injury.
Long-Term Management: Even after symptoms resolve, it is important to continue with regular stretching and strengthening exercises to prevent recurrence.