Patella Tendinopathy also known as runner’s knee or jumper’s knee. It occurs as a result of overuse and/or the patella tendon that connects the kneecap to the shinbone being overstressed. The effected person will experience mild pain in the front of the knee in the area below the kneecap.
People who play Basketball, runners, weightlifters and people who play a number of other sports are effected by the injury.
Patella tendinopathy is commonly known as Patella Tendinitis which refers to swelling or inflammation, in tendinopathy the tendon fibres have not recovered causing pain in the tendon.
Patella tendinopathy can be treated. Recommended methods are isometric holds with the uninjured foot on the wall and the injured knee is moved forward over the toe of the same foot and held for 30 seconds. This should be done 6 times, with a short break in between once per day.
An alternative to this is placing a band around an upright and around the back of the knee, whilst facing the upright place tension on the band and bend the knee over the toes on the injured leg. Hold this for 45 seconds, 5 times, with a short break in between, once per day.
Research suggests that a cold pack will not assist with curing tendinopathy, but warm wheat pack placed on the area has been suggested to aid in recovery.
Small braces can be purchased to place around the patella tendon in order to support the injury during exercise. Ensure appropriate warmups and cool downs are conducted prior to and proceeding all workouts!
Physiotherapists can assist if required with further guidance as to how to manage the issue.
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