What is Patellar Tendonitis?

What is Jumper’s Knee?

Though having a jumper’s knee may sound fun, the symptoms that accompany this condition can cause a great deal of pain for athletes. Also known as patellar tendonitis, this condition is characterized by the weakening and inflammation of the patellar tendon.

Keep reading to learn more about this condition, as well as the recommended treatment options from our sports injury specialists at Unruh Spine Center.

Causes and Symptoms of Patellar Tendonitis (Jumper’s Knee)

Your kneecap, also known as your patella, is connected to your shin bone by a tendon called the patellar tendon. This happens as a result of overuse of your knee joints and often after extreme amounts of jumping on hard surfaces or the force of hitting the ground during a sports event.

Due to repeated stress, your tendon will likely be strained and become inflamed. Common symptoms of jumper’s knee include:

• Pain while running, walking, or jumping.
• Pain when straightening or bending the affected leg.
• Tenderness behind the lower part or underside of your kneecap and patellar tendon.
• Swelling.

Diagnosing and Treating Jumper’s Knee

After reviewing your medical history and conducting a physical examination, your doctor will likely take X-rays to diagnose your jumper’s knee. After confirming a diagnosis, the best treatments of jumper’s knee typically include:

• Strengthening exercises.
• Elevating your knee.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines.

Too often, athletes resort to painkillers to treat their discomfort. Coaches partner with our healthcare providers to encourage athletes to treat time-honored healthcare options that treat and relieve pain, rather than masking the symptoms. We offer:

• Ultrasounds
• Flexion-distraction
• Stretching
• Core-strengthening
• Deep muscle stimulators
• Nutrition counseling
• Supplement therapy
• Acupuncture
• Sports injury massage

As well as a variety of other treatments that work to improve and maintain the athlete’s whole-body health.

Sports Medicine Treatments in Santa Clarita

At Unruh Spine Center, we not only treat current injuries, but we also focus on the prevention of future injuries. Through a variety of sports medicine techniques, such as orthotics and chiropractic adjustments, we can help keep you on your feet and not on the sidelines.

For help managing your pain, contact us today to book an appointment. (661) 288-0022