One of the key tendons in knee function is the patella tendon. This tendon connects the bottom of the kneecap (patella) to the tibia, or shin bone. The patella tendon is elemental in bending and straightening the knee, with extra stress placed on this tendon when jumping. Tears or damage to the patella tendon, or patella tendonitis, is referred to as “jumper’s Knee.” At Robotic Hip and Knee Replacement LA, we offer jumper’s knee treatment to relieve pain and restore knee function at our clinic in Los Angeles.

Patella tendonitis, or jumper’s knee, is a progressive injury. Continued stress on the patella tendon from running and jumping can cause small tears and damage to the tendon. This condition is most common in sports where athletes jump and land on hard surfaces, like basketball, volleyball and track. However, anyone who has strain on their patella tendon can suffer from tendonitis. This is a repetitive injury that can affect overweight individuals or workers that consistently strain their patella tendon.

Symptoms of Patella Tendonitis

Patella tendonitis is an accumulative condition – it often begins slowly and becomes worse over time. Small tears in the patella tendon may cause weakness and inflammation. Continuing to perform activities that put stress on the tendon can result in pain and more damage. Jumper’s knee could begin with mild symptoms but they worsen with continued strain or damage to the tendon. Symptoms of jumper’s knee include:

• Swelling and tenderness directly below the kneecap
• Increased pain when jumping, climbing stairs or kneeling
• Anterior knee pain
• Complete tears can result in the kneecap moving upward

Patella tendonitis can be treated with conservative therapies in the early stages. Rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy can relieve pain and allow the tendon to heal. However, more severe or complete tears may require surgery to repair or reattach the tendon.

If you have symptoms of patella tendonitis and need treatment, contact us at Robotic Hip and Knee Replacement LA. We offer jumper’s knee treatment to relieve knee pain and restore function at our clinic in Los Angeles.