Patellar Tendinitis: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Grades & Treatment

Patellar tendinitis, also called jumper’s knee, is inflammation of the patellar tendon in the knee. It causes significant pain in the front of the knee, especially when walking or exercising.

This condition is more common in soccer, tennis, and basketball players, as well as runners, due to the frequent use of the thigh extensor muscles during jumping and running. However, patellar tendinitis can also develop in older adults as a result of progressive joint wear. In all cases, it should be evaluated and treated by an orthopedic doctor.

Main symptoms

The main symptoms of patellar tendinitis include:

• Pain in the front of the knee

• Pain that worsens with jumping or running

• Swelling in the knee

• Difficulty moving the knee

• Morning stiffness in the knee

When symptoms of patellar tendinitis are present, it is important to see an orthopedic doctor to confirm the diagnosis and begin proper treatment.

How to confirm a diagnosis

Patellar tendinitis is diagnosed by an orthopedic doctor based on symptoms, medical history, and a physical exam of the knee.

To confirm the condition, the doctor may order imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI scans.

Classification of patellar tendinitis

Patellar tendinitis can be classified into stages based on severity and when symptoms appear:

1. Grade I: Mild pain after physical activity

2. Grade II: Pain at the start of exercise, but without reduced performance

3. Grade III: Pain during and after activity, with decreased performance

4. Grade IV: Partial or complete rupture of the patellar tendon

Patellar tendinitis can often be managed with rest and applying ice. When these measures are not enough, physical therapy may be needed to strengthen the knee muscles, relieve pain, and improve mobility.

Treatment options

Initial treatment for patellar tendinitis can be done at home with rest, wearing an elastic knee support, and applying ice for 15 minutes three times a day.

If pain does not improve within 10 to 15 days, it is important to see an orthopedic doctor. The doctor may prescribe pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, to reduce inflammation and ease pain.

Physical therapy is also recommended, using electrotherapy devices along with stretching and strengthening exercises to speed up tendon healing.

In severe cases where symptoms do not improve after about three months of rest, medication, and physical therapy, surgery may be necessary to repair damage to the tendon. However, this is rarely needed since physical therapy typically provides excellent results.

Physical therapy

Electrotherapy treatments, such as laser therapy and ultrasound, can help relieve pain and promote tissue healing.

It is also important to strengthen all the leg muscles, especially the quadriceps at the front of the thigh, and to do stretching exercises to maintain balanced muscle strength in daily activities.

Patella mobilization is another key part of therapy, as it allows the kneecap to move freely over the joint and prevents stiffness that can limit knee movement.