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Patellar tendinopathy ‘Jumper’s knee’
Patellar tendinopathy is a common overuse injury. Jumping causes repeated strain to the patellar tendon resulting in changes to its structure such as small tears or cysts.
You’re more likely to get patellar tendinopathy if you have recently changed your training programme, shortened the length of your rest times, experienced problems with body movement (biomechanics), or have poor muscle flexibility.
What is the treatment for Patellar tendinopathy?
Patellar tendinopathy doesn’t usually get better on its own, so it’s important to seek medical treatment. A sports medicine professional, such as a physiotherapist or sports medicine doctor, will be able to diagnose the problem and give you a treatment plan. This will involve an exercise programme, usually strengthening exercises, and massage.
A biomechanical assessment may be recommended by the knee specialists, as well as treatment from a podiatrist to prevent the injury from happening again.
There’s no quick fix for patellar tendinopathy. You may need a long period of rehabilitation before your symptoms go completely. However, the earlier you get treatment, the quicker your recovery.
New treatments such as PRP (platelet rich plasma) injections or shock wave treatment can speed up the recovery from patellar tendinopathy.