Understanding Jumpers Knee: Causes and Treatment

Patella Tendonitis also known as jumper’s knee is commonly caused from overuse of the knee from activities like jumping and /or running. These activities can cause gradual damage to the patella tendon from excessive strain and pressure which over times weakens the tendon. Patella tendinopathy means degeneration of the tissues in the tendon and can be caused by ageing whereas patella tendonitis is inflammation of the tendon.

You will find the patellar tendon just below your knee cap where the thigh muscles connect to the shin bone. The main use of the patellar tendon is that it aids you in bending your knee.

The greatest cause to damage to this tendon is when jumping as jumping causes a lot of stress on the tendon at first the damage that can be caused by jumping and other activities that involve bending the knee, at first the damage will not be noticeable but excessively this damage can get worse.

Treatments

Patellar tendinopathy is mostly a degenerative condition and not a result of inflammation so it is unlikely for a doctor to prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs for most patients, another reason for this is that anti-inflammatory drugs can stop the production of natural chemicals that your body must create to help rebuild and heal the damaged tendon.

It is a good idea to diagnose and treat patellar tendinopathy early as early treatment of this condition can reduce the damage of the tendon.

Patella Tendon Strap are often used to help ease the pain and symptoms of this painful condition, Patella Tendon Strap  can be bought cheaply online but are highly beneficial the Patella Tendon Strap help to support the knee and reduce the strain that is put on the knee when bending thus protecting the tendon from further damage whilst you recover.

It is a good idea not to do sporting activity whilst you recover, and keep pressure away from your knee, that is another good feature of Patella Tendon Strap as these straps will help to minimise pressure.

-Pool running is a good way to keep fit and active whilst recovering not only that but pool running helps to strengthen the knees muscles helping recovery.

Often in serious cases where all else has failed surgery may be required. With surgery surgeons will try to remove degenerating tissue in the tendon and try to fix and repair the tendon. Often after surgery the body will replace the lost tissue tendon with healthy new tendon tissue however this will take time around 3-4months.