What is Patella Tendinopathy?

Patella tendinopathy, commonly known as jumper’s knee, is predominantly an overuse injury. The patellar tendon is subjected to high levels of stress via the action of the knee extensor mechanism.

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Tendinopathy is believed to be accountable for a significant proportion of all musculoskeletal pathology resulting in referral to a health professional (Resteghini et al., 2016).

Patella tendinopathy, commonly known as jumper’s knee, is predominantly an overuse injury. The patellar tendon is subjected to high levels of stress via the action of the knee extensor mechanism. It is a common site for pain and injury to occur, especially among the sporting population. Research has shown patella tendinopathy to be present in up to 14-16% of all athletes who play sports requiring jumping, such as volleyball and basketball (Cong et al., 2016).

When the patellar tendon is subjected to regular episodes of high-intensity activity, often involving jumping, the tendon can become inflamed and painful. An inflamed and painful tendon is known as tendinitis. If the patellar tendon is repeatedly exposed to further episodes of tendinitis the tendon is unable to recover fully resulting in an incomplete, sub-optimal healing response. The result of incomplete tendon healing is a pathologically weak and thickened tendon. A weak and thickened tendon is known as a tendinopathy. A pathologically weak tendon can cause significant pain and disability and in severe cases can result in tears (Cong et al., 2016).