Patellar Tendonitis (Jumper’s Knee)

Patellar tendonitis, often called jumper’s knee, is an overuse injury that affects the tendon connecting the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia). This tendon is essential for straightening the knee and absorbing forces during running, jumping, or climbing.

The condition is common among athletes who participate in sports that involve repetitive jumping or rapid directional changes, such as basketball, volleyball, and track events. It can also develop in non-athletes who increase activity suddenly or perform repetitive knee motions.

Early treatment is crucial to prevent worsening inflammation and tendon degeneration, which can lead to chronic pain or increased risk of tendon tears.

Causes

Patellar tendonitis develops from repeated stress that creates microscopic tears in the tendon. Over time, these microtears can cause inflammation and degeneration.

Risk factors include:

  • Jumping sports (basketball, volleyball)
  • Running or high-impact training
  • Tight quadriceps or hamstring muscles
  • Weak hip or core muscles
  • Sudden increases in training intensity
  • Poor biomechanics during activity

Addressing these factors is key to recovery and prevention.

Symptoms

  • Pain just below the kneecap, especially during activity
  • Tenderness along the patellar tendon
  • Pain with jumping, running, or squatting
  • Stiffness after activity
  • Swelling or thickening of the tendon

Symptoms often develop gradually and worsen with continued activity.

Treatment

Non-Surgical Treatment

  • Rest and activity modification
  • Ice therapy and anti-inflammatory medications
  • Physical therapy focusing on strength and flexibility
  • Patellar tendon straps or braces

Advanced Treatments

  • Specialized rehabilitation programs
  • Injection therapies in persistent cases

Surgery is rarely needed and reserved for severe cases that do not respond to conservative care.

Frequently Asked Questions About Patellar Tendonitis

Repetitive stress on the patellar tendon from jumping, running, or increased activity intensity is the most common cause.

Yes. Most patients improve with rest, physical therapy, stretching, and strengthening exercises.

Recovery ranges from several weeks to months depending on severity and adherence to rehabilitation.

High-impact activities should be temporarily reduced. Low-impact exercises and modified training are recommended during recovery.
Can athletes continue playing sports?

With proper treatment, most patients recover fully and return to their previous activity levels.

Get Expert Care for Patellar Tendonitis in the East Bay

Get treated by the best Orthopedic surgeons in the East Bay, Dr. Michael Krosin, Dr. Steven Zourabian, and Dr. Virginia Lieu—trusted experts in treating Patellar Tendonitis in the East Bay Area.

Schedule your consultation today to receive a personalized treatment plan and get back to pain-free movement as quickly as possible.

Our Address

East Bay Orthopaedic Trauma & Reconstruction
19842 Lake Chabot Rd, Suite B
Castro Valley, CA 94546

Contact Us

Dr. Michael Krosin,  Dr. Steven Zourabian & Dr. Virginia Lieu
Phone (510) 750-1967
Fax (844) 718-0067

Appointments

For immediate assistance during business hours:
Monday through Friday: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm,
please call 510 750 1967