What we Treat / Patellar Tendinopathy

Jumper's Knee is the common term for Patella Tendonitis. Typically knee pain comes on gradually if running, jumping and landing activities are practised too much, because the strain on the Patella Tendon becomes too great and microscopic damage develops in the tissue that makes up the tendon. The greatest amount of stress is put through the Patella Tendon during jumping and, just as importantly, during landing.

Apart from sporting overuse, this condition is also associated with ageing. As we get older, our ability to regenerate damaged tissue decreases and the quality of the tendon deteriorates.

Jumper's knee usually comes on gradually. There is pain in the tendon which is worsened by activity; it will feel tender to touch. Often the tendon feels very stiff first thing in the morning.

Early recognition by a doctor or Chartered Physiotherapist is important as the outcome is better if treatment is initiated early. In minor cases of Jumper's knee, a Patella Tendon strap can be effective in relieving symptoms. We have these available for sale in the retail section of our clinic.

As the tendon is healing, our Physios may gently mobilise the soft tissue by providing gentle stress, to help the tendon to adapt and gain tensile strength. Recovery is optimised by using a programme that uses what is called 'eccentric muscle work'. Eccentric muscle work refers to a muscle that is lengthening while contracting - a contraction that occurs during movements such as landing and decelerating. Maximal tension is generated in the muscle during the eccentric contraction and this causes the tendon to adapt and get stronger. We can guide you through this process.