Everything You Need to Know About Patellar Tendonitis
Did you know patellar tendonitis can trick you into considering your knee pain as the after-effects of physical activity and slowly develop into a chronic condition?
Yes, patellar tendonitis or knee can be deceptive, for it initially begins with slight pain in the knee and gradually develops into chronic pain or inflammation of the tendon in the knee. It often results from strenuous physical activity, causing pain in the knee. And after a while, the pain goes away. But when you return to physical activity, the pain comes back with even more intensity than before.
What is Patellar Tendonitis?
Patellar Tendonitis is an injury that affects the tendon that connects the kneecap, known as the patella, to the shinbone, known as the tibia. It generally begins with slight discomfort or pain in the knee and progresses into chronic pain or inflammation of the tendon. Often, people who develop this condition are unaware of its oncoming until they get diagnosed with it
Who is more likely to have patellar tendonitis?
Although anyone can get patellar tendonitis, it is most common among athletes, especially those who jump a lot, such as volleyball and basketball players. So much so that it’s often called a jumper's knee.
What causes patellar tendonitis?
Tendons are metabolic active tissues that respond to mechanical stress the same way as the bone and muscles. When they are subjected to a force more than their resistance, microtears or micro rupture can occur inside. These ruptures or tears may heal completely and return to normal. Or they may heal partially and progress towards a chronic condition, called tendinitis, with scar tissues, cysts, or calcifications. When they develop into tendinitis, they exhibit symptoms of pain and functional impairment.
Patellar tendonitis occurs when there is an overuse of the tendon that connects the shinbone to the patella, called the Patellar Tendon.
Apart from overuse and mechanical stress, other contributing factors to the development of patellar tendonitis are:
● Tight leg muscles
● Imbalanced lower leg muscles
● Misaligned ankles, feet, and legs
● Shoes without padding
● Overweight
● Hard playing surfaces
What are the symptoms of patellar tendonitis?
The first symptoms of patellar tendonitis are usually pain and tenderness at the base of the kneecap. These symptoms are more obvious after strenuous physical activity, but, as you rest, they may go away and return with greater intensity when you engage in sports or physical activity again. As the condition progresses, you may notice swelling and a burning sensation in the kneecap.
Patellar tendinitis can interfere with your ability to perform physical activities and carry daily living activities as well.
The Best Treatment for patellar tendonitis
Treatment of patellar tendonitis depends on its severity. For mild pain and inflammation, you may get relief from rest, ice therapy, stretching exercises, and medication. However, if the condition worsens over time and becomes chronic, you may get much-needed relief from extracorporeal shockwave therapy for knee tendonitis.
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy involves directing sound waves to the soft tissues in the affected area to speed up healing and alleviate pain. To know more about ESWT for insertional Achilles tendonitis or patellar tendinitis, please visit this page or contact us today.
