Patellar tendonitis feels like a sharp or aching pain below the kneecap, especially during activity. It may worsen with movement or stiffness after rest.

Introduction

Patellar tendonitis, or jumper’s knee, is a common condition that affects many athletes and physically active individuals. Understanding the sensation and symptoms is crucial for early intervention and proper treatment.

Key Takeaways:

Location of Pain: Patellar tendonitis causes pain just below the kneecap, typically felt during or after physical activity.
Type of Pain: The pain can range from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing sensations, worsening with activity.
Main Causes: Overuse, especially from repetitive jumping, running, or sudden increases in physical activity, is a primary cause.
Treatment: Rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and sometimes bracing are effective treatments.
Prevention: Gradual increases in activity, proper warm-ups, and strengthening the muscles around the knee can help prevent the condition.
When to See a Doctor: If knee pain persists or worsens, it's crucial to seek medical advice to avoid further complications.

What is Patellar Tendonitis?

Patellar tendonitis occurs when the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia), becomes irritated or inflamed due to repetitive stress. It is common in sports that involve frequent jumping, running, or changes in direction, like basketball and volleyball.

What Does Patellar Tendonitis Feel Like?

1. Where Does the Pain Occur?

The primary sensation of patellar tendonitis is pain, typically felt just below the kneecap, where the tendon attaches to the shinbone. This pain can be mild at first but progressively worsens as the condition advances. Initially, the discomfort may only be noticeable during physical activity, such as when you start running or jumping, and then subside afterward.

Over time, however, even daily movements, like climbing stairs or standing from a seated position, can trigger pain.

2. What Type of Pain?

People often describe the pain as a dull ache that intensifies with movement. The area around the tendon may feel tender to the touch, and you might notice swelling or warmth in the knee. As the condition worsens, sharp or stabbing pain can occur during or immediately after activities like running, jumping, or bending the knee.

Additionally, activities that require kneeling or squatting might become particularly painful.

3. How Does Patellar Tendonitis Progress?

In the early stages, patellar tendonitis may only cause discomfort after intense activity. However, without treatment, the condition can worsen to the point where pain becomes constant and interferes with everyday activities.

At this stage, even walking or standing for extended periods might become challenging. Ignoring the pain can lead to more severe damage, such as patellar tendinopathy, where the tendon undergoes degeneration.

What Causes Patellar Tendonitis?

1. Overuse and Repetitive Stress

Patellar tendonitis is primarily caused by repetitive stress on the knee, often from activities that involve frequent jumping or abrupt movements. Over time, this stress causes small tears in the tendon, leading to inflammation and pain.

2. Sudden Increases in Physical Activity

A sudden, intense increase in training intensity or volume, without allowing the body adequate time to adjust, is a common trigger for patellar tendonitis. Athletes who increase their training load too quickly or return to high-impact sports after a period of rest are particularly susceptible.

3. Muscle Imbalance and Tightness

Muscle imbalances, particularly between the quadriceps and hamstrings, can place extra strain on the patellar tendon. Tight leg muscles, especially the quadriceps, also contribute to increased stress on the knee joint during physical activities.

How is Patellar Tendonitis Diagnosed?

Healthcare providers diagnose patellar tendonitis through a physical exam and by evaluating your medical history. The provider may ask about your activity level, the sports you play, and when you first started experiencing symptoms. In some cases, imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs, or ultrasounds may be used to get a clearer view of the tendon and rule out other potential injuries.

What are the Treatment Options for Patellar Tendonitis?

1. Rest and Activity Modification

The first step in treating patellar tendonitis is reducing or stopping activities that aggravate the knee. Rest is essential to allow the tendon to heal. In many cases, temporarily ceasing high-impact activities, such as jumping or running, can prevent further damage.

2. Icing and Anti-inflammatory Medications

Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, may also be used to control pain and inflammation.

3. Physical Therapy

Physical therapy plays a crucial role in both treating and preventing patellar tendonitis. Therapists often recommend exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles surrounding the knee, particularly the quadriceps. Eccentric exercises, where the muscle lengthens while under tension, are particularly effective in promoting tendon healing.

4. Knee Bracing and Taping

In some cases, a knee brace or taping technique may be recommended to support the knee and reduce stress on the patellar tendon during activities.

5. Surgery

Surgery is rarely needed for patellar tendonitis unless the tendon is torn or severe degeneration has occurred. If non-surgical treatments fail, a healthcare provider may suggest surgical options to repair the tendon.

How Can You Prevent Patellar Tendonitis?

Preventing patellar tendonitis involves making modifications to your exercise routine and training techniques:

Warm-Up and Cool Down Properly: Always warm up before engaging in intense physical activity and take time to cool down afterward. Incorporate stretches that target the muscles around your knee, particularly the quadriceps and hamstrings.
Gradually Increase Activity: Avoid sudden increases in the intensity or frequency of your training. Allow your body to adapt to new activities gradually.
Strengthen Supporting Muscles: Building strength in the muscles surrounding the knee, especially the quadriceps and hamstrings, helps distribute stress evenly across the joint.

When Should You See a Doctor?

If you experience knee pain that persists for more than a few days, worsens over time, or interferes with your daily activities, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider. Delaying treatment can increase the risk of more severe complications, such as tendon rupture.

Conclusion

Patellar tendonitis starts as mild discomfort but can quickly escalate into chronic pain if left untreated. Early recognition of symptoms and preventive measures can help reduce the risk of long-term damage. If you're experiencing persistent knee pain, especially after physical activity, seeking professional help is crucial.

At Manhattan Physical Therapy, we specialize in treating knee conditions like patellar tendonitis. Our team is here to guide you through a personalized recovery plan. Call us today at (680)-208-3884 to schedule your consultation and start your path to pain relief.