What is Patellar Tendinopathy?
Patellar tendonitis or jumper’s knee is a common condition in which the patella, a tendon (strong bands of tissue, that help connect the muscles to the bones) helps connect the kneecap to the shin bone, and due to overuse becomes inflated and the person finds it hard to walk, run, or carry out different activities.
The constant stress on the tendon causes it to tear and increases the pain in the knee area, which needs the doctor's attention immediately.
This type of condition is normally seen in athletes, especially in those who are involved in running activities or jumping activities, that's why it is also known as Jumper's knee.
What are the causes behind Patellar Tendinopathy?
Patellar Tendinopathy is a condition caused because of putting repetitive stress on the patellar tendon.
A Study and Research conducted in the year 2017, found that around 67% of the persons who were involved in Football, Running, or jumping activities were diagnosed with Patellar Tendinopathy.
At first, the tears are tiny in the tendon, but due to constant stress, the tiny tears get irritated and become bigger, and multiply. Which ultimately weakens the tendon and the person gets patellar tendinopathy.
This condition is seen as common among athletes who are involved in running, sprinting, Jumping activities, volleyball players, football, or any activity where pressure on the legs and knees is higher.
What are the Symptoms of Patellar Tendinopathy?
Pain in the knee area, which makes even walking a nightmare task.
Difficulty in carrying out daily activities.
Not able to climb the stairs.
Unbearable pain just below the kneecap.
Swelling and tenderness around the knee area.
Who is at a risk for Patellar Tendinopathy?
Anyone who is involved in Sports and activities like Football, Running, Jumping, Volleyball, Cricket etc.
It is a common condition found in those who are above the age of 45, as at these ages the body starts breaking down and becomes more prone to various diseases.
5 ways to manage Patellar Tendinopathy?
Take Proper Rest - The main cause behind Patellar Tendinopathy is overuse.
If you experience any pain in the knee area, that may be a sign of the patella getting injured.
Resting allows the patella to become relaxed and it reduces inflammation.
If the pain is increasing then it is recommended to leave the activity and consult a doctor to avoid further complications of the injury.
Hot and Cold water therapy - If you experience pain in the areas of the knee, then rub an ice pack on the area or simply boil some water, take a soft cotton cloth and compress that area.
Both ice and hot water usage are recommended to get relief from this pain.
Leg Lift Exercises - This exercise helps strengthen the patellar tendon and improves the overall range of motion.
How to perform - Lie on your back, face facing the cloud, and knees completely straight. Then tighten the quadriceps muscle and lift your legs in the air, 45 degrees from the ground.
Hold till you are comfortable and then slowly come back and relax the muscles.
Take Physiotherapy - Physiotherapy works best in treating conditions like Patellar Tendinopathy. Using shock wave therapy and massaging the damaged area, provides relief in the areas and accelerates the healing process.
Use Tendon Straps - Tendon Strap is a strap that goes around the leg under the patella, which puts pressure on the tendon and distributes the load overall, and helps reduce the pain and the swelling.
This may not cure the condition completely, however, it won't make you feel the pain.
If you or someone you love is suffering from this, you should consult expert physiotherapists to get rid of the pain. Physiotherapists at the fit o fine clinic use cutting-edge advanced practices that include but are not limited to the use of massages, movements, and exercises.