DISEASE SCANNER
Global Incurable Diseases Tracker
Back to Globe
Orthopedic Condition
Patellar Tendinitis (Jumper's Knee)
LOW SEVERITY
Inflammation of the patellar tendon connecting the kneecap to the shinbone. Common in athletes who jump frequently. Causes pain below the kneecap and can lead to tendon degeneration if untreated.
Global Affected
1.5M
Countries
16
Symptoms
Pain below kneecap
Knee stiffness
Weakness
Swelling
Difficulty jumping
Pain when running
Pain when bending
Tenderness to touch
Treatment Options
Rest
Ice
Physical therapy
Eccentric exercises
Patellar tendon strap
NSAIDs
PRP injections
Surgery (rare)
Risk Factors
1Jumping sports
2Tight leg muscles
3Muscle imbalance
4Overtraining
5Poor footwear
6Hard playing surfaces
7Previous injury
8Age 15-30
Diagnostic Methods
- 1Physical examination
- 2Ultrasound
- 3MRI
- 4X-rays (to rule out other causes)
- 5Jumping test
- 6Single-leg decline squat test
Prognosis
Good with proper rest and rehabilitation. Most recover in 6-12 weeks. Chronic cases may take 6+ months. Some athletes may need to modify training permanently.
Prevention
- Proper warm-up
- Stretching
- Strengthening exercises
- Gradual training increase
- Proper footwear
- Rest between sessions
- Cross-training
- Technique improvement
Research Status
Rest and physical therapy are main treatments. Eccentric exercise programs highly effective. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections studied. Surgery rarely needed. Return to sport takes weeks to months.
Affected Countries
Sources
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/patellar-tendinitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20353256
- https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
- https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases
Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.