The knee is the biggest joint in the body and is susceptible to injury. The most common problem of the knee is irritation of the patellar tendon. A tendon is a chord of strong connective tissue attaching a muscle to a bone. Patellar tendonitis or jumper\'s knee is the inflammation of the tendon that attaches the patella or kneecap to the tibia which is the major bone in the lower leg. This condition is often seen in basketball, volleyball, distance running, long-jumping, mountain climbing, figure skating or tennis.
Symptoms:
The front and the bottom of the kneecap hurts when it is pressed in
Aching and stiffness after exertion
Pain when the quadriceps muscles are contracted
The affected tendon appears larger than the unaffected part
Calf weakness may be present
Causes:
Intensity and frequency of physical activity - Repeated jumping is most commonly associated with jumper’s knee, added stress on the tendon can be caused by sudden increases in the intensity of physical activity or increases in frequency of activity
Being overweight – People who are overweight or obese can suffer from Jumper’s knee, as it increases the stress on the patellar tendon, and some research suggests that having a higher body mass index may increase the risk of Patellar tendonitis
Tight leg muscles - People who have reduced flexibility in their thigh muscles and their hamstrings, which run up the back of the thighs, have chances of having Jumper’s knee, as it increases the strain on the patellar tendon
Misalignment of the leg - The way the leg bones line up could be off slightly, putting strain on the tendon
Raised kneecap - The kneecap may be positioned higher up on your knee joint, causing increased strain on the patellar tendon and leading to jumper’s knee
Jumper’s knee is classified into four stages. This classification depends upon the duration of symptoms:
Stage 1 - Pain only after activity, without functional impairment
Stage 2 - Pain during and after activity, the patient is still able to perform satisfactorily in his or her sport
Stage 3 - Prolonged pain during and after activity, with increasing difficulty in performing at a satisfactory level
Stage 4 - Complete tendon tear that requires surgical repair
Diagnosis:
The doctor may examine your knee to see if there is tenderness at the patellar tendon. He or she will also have you run, jump, or squat to see if these activities cause pain. Your feet will be examined to see if you have a problem with over-pronation (Overpronation is when the feet roll inward too much.)
Treatment
Apply ice to your knee for 20 minutes every 3 to 4 hours for 2 to 3 days or until the pain and swelling go away
Take an anti-inflammatory medication or a pain medication prescribed by your health care provider
Receive cortisone injections from your health care provider
Wear a band across the patellar tendon, called an infrapatellar strap, or a special knee brace (the strap or brace will support your patellar tendon, preventing it from becoming overused or more painful) and
Wear custom-made arch supports called orthotics if you have a problem with over pronation
Prevention
To prevent Jumper’s knee, it’s important to maintain strong thigh muscles. Jumper’s knee can be further prevented by wearing proper fitting shoes that are right for the activity. You can also use orthotics to support the arch if required. Always remember to gently stretch before and after exercising
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