Jumper’s Knee

Jumper’s knee is also known as patellar tendonitis. It affects the patellar tendon, which is directly below the kneecap (it actually attaches to the knee cap). This condition is more prevalent with plyometric (jumping sequences) training or sports that require sudden stops or changes of direction. However, I have seen several cases where it simply occurs with normal training.

Treatments:

• See Principles of Recovery.
• In the early stage of this condition frequent stretching of the quadriceps muscle will accelerate healing. Hold the stretch for thirty seconds and repeat three times, perform this routine three times per day.
• Hamstring and calf stretches may also help reduce strain on the patella tendon.
• A patellar tendon strap provides a compressive force across the patellar tendon and for some people provides quite a bit of relief. If this is going to work for you, you should notice a distinct improvement while wearing it. Only wear it when doing activities that typically aggravate your symptoms. If you wear it all day long it will become irritating.
• An anti-inflammatory cream may help reduce the pain and inflammation. ProZ is a new product that contains ibuprofen as well as a blend of homeopathic remedies.
• Physical therapistscan apply a treatment called iontophoresis, which is the use of an electrical current to apply a steroid medication over the sore spot. Research has shown that this treatment delivers as much steroid (anti-inflammatory) to the tendon as an injection, without a needle. Usually, two to three treatments will improve symptoms substantially.
• Deep tissue friction massage can also be helpful in stubborn cases.
• Eccentric quadriceps strengthening has been shown to reverse the structural changes in the patellar tendon if the condition becomes chronic. This exercise is performed with a knee extension resistance machine. The emphasis is on lowering the knee from a straight position, to a bent position. Use both legs to straighten the knee and then lower with one. This exercise is painful, but if the condition is chronic and not responding to anything else, stick with it for at least three weeks (two to tree times per week). You should notice improvement then continue for another six weeks.