jumpers knee

What is Jumpers Knee?

Jumper’s Knee (Patellar Tendonitis) is an overuse injury that affects the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia). This condition is common in athletes who engage in sports involving frequent jumping, such as basketball, volleyball, and track and field.

Mechanism of Injury:

Jumper’s Knee usually develops due to repetitive stress on the patellar tendon, such as:

Frequent Jumping and Landing: The repeated impact from jumping and landing puts significant strain on the patellar tendon, leading to microtears and inflammation.
Overtraining: Engaging in high volumes of intense physical activity without adequate rest can overload the tendon.
Muscle Imbalances: Weak or tight quadriceps, hamstrings, or calf muscles can alter knee mechanics, increasing stress on the patellar tendon.
Improper Technique: Poor jumping or landing techniques, as well as running mechanics, can contribute to tendon overload.
Hard Surfaces: Playing on hard surfaces can increase the impact on the knees, exacerbating stress on the patellar tendon.

Symptoms

Pain Below the Kneecap: The primary symptom is pain at the front of the knee, just below the kneecap, where the patellar tendon attaches.
Pain During and After Activity: Pain typically starts during physical activity and may persist afterward. In early stages, pain may only occur after exercise, but as the condition progresses, pain can become constant.
Tenderness: The area just below the kneecap may be tender to the touch.
Swelling: Mild swelling around the patellar tendon is common.
Stiffness: The knee may feel stiff, particularly after periods of inactivity, such as first thing in the morning.
Weakness: Weakness in the affected leg may develop, making jumping, running, or climbing stairs more difficult.

Treatment

Physical Therapy: A tailored exercise program focusing on strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles, as well as improving flexibility and correcting any biomechanical issues.
Activity Modification: Reducing or avoiding activities that exacerbate the condition, with gradual reintroduction as pain improves.
Eccentric Exercises: Specific exercises that focus on lengthening the muscle while it is under tension, which is effective in treating tendonitis.
Bracing or Taping: A patellar tendon strap or taping technique may be used to offload the stress on the tendon during activity.
Dry Needling: Applied to tight or painful areas around the knee to relieve tension and promote healing.
Ultrasound Therapy: Used to reduce inflammation and stimulate tissue repair in the patellar tendon.
Massage: Focused on the quadriceps and surrounding muscles to relieve tension and improve flexibility, reducing stress on the patellar tendon.
Hot Stones: Applied to relax tight muscles and provide pain relief.
Cupping: Enhances blood flow and reduces muscle tension around the knee, supporting recovery.
Rehabilitation Plan: Includes a progressive strengthening program, focusing on eccentric loading of the tendon, flexibility exercises, and techniques to improve jumping and landing mechanics.
Reassessment: Regular follow-up to monitor progress, adjust the treatment plan, and ensure a safe return to activity.