Inflammation of the tendon that connects patella (kneecap) to tibia (shinbone).
It is usually a sports related injury’s approximately 14 to 20% athletes suffers by this.
Patellar tendonitis is also known as Jumper’s Knee, Patellar tendinosis, Patellar tendinopathy.
Patella (Also known as Kneecap) - Flat round triangular bonewhich articulates (joins) with femur (thigh bone). It covers and protects theanterior articular surface of the joint.
Causes -
It is mainly caused by overuse of knee joint such as such as frequent jumping on hard surfaces. The repetitive stress on knee creates tiny tears in the tendon which leads to inflammation and weaken the tendon.
Contributing Factors
1) Tight leg muscles and uneven muscle strength.
2) Malaligned feet ankles and legs
3) Obesity
4) Hard playing surface
5) Chronic diseases such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis or diabetes.
Symptoms -
1) Pain and tenderness around patellar tendon.
2) Swelling over knee.
3) Pain while jumping, running or walking.
4) Tenderness in the lower part of knee cap.
Diagnosis -
Clinical examination
X-rays
MRI
Ultrasound
Complication – If neglected it can lead to Patellar tendon rupture.
Treatment
1) Conservative management is done with analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs, cold pack application, knee straps compression morning, Knee straps or Patellar tendon straps, stretching and strengthening exercises or Corticosteroid injections or grow factor concentrate(GFC) injection.
2) Surgical Management – Very rarely required. If the conservative treatment fails or if the injury is extensive it is done.
Prognosis – Prognosis is good.