Jumpers Knee – Part 1 - Health Plus Digest

Patellar tendonitis, patellar tendiopathy or jumpers knee is an inflammatory response to injury to the patellar tendon. This tendon connects the knee cap (or patella) to the shin bone. The knee is one of the largest joints on the body and provides stability and support for the weight of the body. There are 3 long bones and the patella cap which meet at the knee and allow a smooth bending motion.

Unfortunately, this is a relatively common injury in athletes who must jump frequently in their sport, such as basketball players, gymnasts, volleyball players and track and field athletes have a higher risk of developing the condition. Jumpers knee is an overuse injury, or repetitive stress injury to the tendon. Microtears happen in the tendon and don’t heal between events.

Symptoms will often come on gradually and not suddenly. The athlete can experience pain and swelling below the kneecap, increased pain when straightening the leg, getting up from sitting or going up and down the stairs. The pain in the knee cap area will also increase with physical activity and not get better with activity.

Treatment for the condition requires rest for at least 2 weeks and more often 4 to 6 weeks for full healing. Rest should be continued until the symptoms have completely disappeared. The athlete should also incorporate R.I.C.E. The acronym stands for Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation.

Rest for at least 2 weeks. Ice the knee 2-3 times daily for 15 minutes for about a week to speed healing. You can incorporate compression using a compression bandage on the knee and elevating the leg above the level of the heart to help reduce swelling while icing.

References:

(1) International Orthopedics: use of Platelet-Rich Plasma for the treatment of Refractory Jumper’s Knee

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2989009/

Resources:

Kids health: Jumpers Knee

http://kidshealth.org/parent/medical/bones/jumpers_knee.html

Hughston Clinic: Jumpers Knee

http://www.hughston.com/hha/a_13_4_4.htm

CorePerformance: Jumpers Knee

http://www.coreperformance.com/knowledge/injury-pain/jumpers-knee.html

MayoClinic: Patellar Tendinitis

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/patellar-tendinitis/basics/definition/con-20024441