Understanding Patellar Tendinitis

If you’ve ever experienced knee pain—especially after jumping, running, or even standing for long periods—you might be dealing with patellar tendinitis, commonly known as jumper’s knee. This condition affects the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia). When inflamed or overused, it can cause pain and mobility issues, limiting your ability to move freely. At Stellar Physio, we specialize in physiotherapy treatments that promote pain relief, tendon recovery, and improved mobility. Let’s dive into what causes patellar tendinitis, how it can be treated, and why physiotherapy is essential for long-term healing.

What Causes Patellar Tendinitis?

Patellar tendinitis is most common in athletes and active individuals, but it can affect anyone. The leading causes include:

✅ Overuse & repetitive strain – High-impact activities like jumping, running, or sudden directional changes put excess stress on the patellar tendon.

✅ Weak or imbalanced muscles – If your quadriceps, hamstrings, or calf muscles are tight or weak, they can put extra strain on the knee.

✅ Improper biomechanics – Poor running or jumping technique, excessive inward knee movement, or misalignment can increase tendon stress.

✅ Sudden increase in activity – Rapid changes in training intensity, frequency, or load can overwhelm the tendon, leading to inflammation.

✅ Tendon degeneration – Long-term microtears and inflammation can weaken the tendon structure, causing chronic pain.

Symptoms of Patellar Tendinitis

If you’re experiencing patellar tendinitis, you may notice:

🔹 Pain at the front of the knee – Typically right below the kneecap, especially during movement.

🔹 Stiffness & discomfort – Especially after long periods of rest or sitting.

🔹 Swelling or tenderness – Mild inflammation around the tendon area.

🔹 Weakness in the knee – Reduced ability to jump, squat, or bear weight without discomfort.

How Physiotherapy Helps in Recovery

At Stellar Physio, we provide specialized physiotherapy treatments designed to reduce pain, restore tendon health, and enhance mobility. Here’s how we approach patellar tendinitis:

Manual Therapy – Techniques such as deep tissue massage, joint mobilization, and soft tissue release help reduce inflammation and promote healing.  Strength & Flexibility Training – Strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes improves muscle balance, reducing tendon stress. Pain Management Techniques – Using ultrasound therapy, dry needling, or electrotherapy helps accelerate recovery and alleviate discomfort. Biomechanical Correction – Addressing posture, movement patterns, and running mechanics prevents recurring knee issues. Gradual Return to Activity – A structured rehab plan ensures you can safely return to sports and daily activities without re-injury.

Preventing Patellar Tendinitis

To keep your knees strong and healthy, consider these preventive measures:

✔️ Warm-up properly – Dynamic stretching before activity prepares muscles for movement.

✔️ Strengthen supporting muscles – Focus on leg muscle conditioning to balance knee loading.

✔️ Avoid sudden activity increases – Gradually build up training intensity rather than rushing progress.

✔️ Use proper footwear – Shock-absorbing shoes reduce stress on the knees.

✔️ Maintain good landing mechanics – Learn proper jumping and squatting techniques to protect the patellar tendon.

Conclusion

Patellar tendinitis can be frustrating, but expert physiotherapy can help you regain strength, mobility, and pain-free movement. At Stellar Physio, we specialize in tailored treatment plans that promote effective tendon healing while preventing future injuries. If knee pain is affecting your daily life or performance, reach out to us today for expert care and personalized recovery solutions!

Let Stellar Physio guide you back to pain-free movement. Book your physiotherapy session today!