Diagnosis |
PATELLAR TENDONITIS
(Jumper’s Knee)
Total Tendon
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| Definition |
Inflammation and degeneration of the
tendon that connects the kneecap (Patella) to the shin bone (Tibia).
Picture
of Normal Knee
Model
and X-ray of a Normal Knee |
| Details |
This disorder is seen in athletes that
engage in running and jumping type sports such as basketball or
volleyball. It is characterized by pain in the front of the knee
that ranges from a dull ache to severe and sharp pain. As the
inflammation progresses pain will occur during sports and then maybe
even at rest. |
| Causes |
Patellar tendonitis is an overuse
syndrome. Repetitive or power jumping contributes to swelling and
inflammation in the patellar tendon. If untreated, small tears and
degeneration of the tendon may occur. Poor muscle flexibility may
also be responsible for causing patellar tendonitis. |
| Diagnosis |
Patellar tendonitis is diagnosed when an
athlete complains of pain in the front of the knee coupled with
tenderness over the area between the knee cap (Patella) and the shin
bone (Tibia). Xrays may show a high riding kneecap. Occasionally, an
MRI scan or ultrasound is employed to confirm the extent of the
patellar tendon involvement.
Knee
Physical Exam--Patellar Tendonitis
Patellar
Tendonitis MRI |
| Treatment |
Non operative
| Phase I |
Control of pain and inflammation with REST,
icing, stretching and anti-inflammatory medication |
| Phase II |
Restoration of strength and function via
physical therapy program. Modalities such as ultrasound,
cortisone cream, straps and taping may be used during this
therapy. |
| Phase III |
Continue therapy program to include sport
specific
drills and testing. Resume activity or sports when symptoms
have completely resolved. |
Recently, Platelet Rich Plasma injections have been investigated
as a potential treatment for this disorder by Dr. Allan
Mishra. Research is ongoing. For more information, go to
the homepage of EMEDx.
Operative
If nonoperative treatment measures fail, surgery may be needed
to cut away the inflammation and stimulate healing of the tendon.
This is known as a patellar tendon debridment procedure.
Fortunately, most cases of patellar tendonitis respond to
nonsurgical treatment. If this debridement procedure is needed,
however, a diagnostic knee arthroscopy
may be done at the same time to rule out other internal causes of
the knee pain. |
| Prevention |
Avoid overusing your knee by cross-training
Maintain maximum flexibility and always warm up before sports
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