Patellar Tendonitis
The patellar tendon connects the kneecap to the shinbone. When it’s overused or experiences repetitive stress, it can develop patellar tendonitis, which involves inflammation or degradation. This injury is common among athletes in high-impact sports like volleyball, basketball, and running, but can affect anyone with repetitive knee strain or improper movement mechanics.
Fortunately, physical therapy is an effective way to find relief from patellar tendonitis. At Wasatch Peak Physical Therapy, we specialize in treating this condition. Our targeted rehabilitation program is designed to reduce knee pain, restore strength, and help you return to normal activity as soon as possible.
The Basics of Patellar Tendonitis
Patellar tendonitis feels like a sharp or aching pain at the front of the knee or tenderness just below the kneecap. It may cause pain during jumping, squatting, climbing stairs, or running — any activity that requires movement of the knee joint. Many people also feel stiffness after physical activity, as well as a sensation of weakness or “giving out” in the knee.
There are many possible causes of patellar tendonitis, including:
- Repetitive jumping or running on hard surfaces
- A sudden increase in training intensity or volume
- Poor landing mechanics or overpronation
- Muscle imbalances that increase tension on the patellar tendon, such as tight hamstrings and quadriceps or weak glutes and core muscles
Why Choose Physical Therapy for Patellar Tendonitis?
Physical therapy is one of the best treatments for patellar tendonitis because it addresses underlying movement problems, stopping pain at the source without relying on medication. It has proven to improve tendon healing, supports a safe and structured return to physical activity, and helps prevent chronic issues.
We recommend patellar tendonitis rehab for:
- Athletes with knee pain during sports
- Runners experiencing pain at the front of the knee
- Anyone with recurring knee pain during daily tasks like squatting or stairs
- Individuals with chronic patellar tendinopathy looking for long-term relief
It’s especially important to seek physical therapy if your knee pain has lasted more than a week, hasn’t improved after rest, returns each time you attempt activity, or gets in the way of your daily tasks.
Our Patellar Tendonitis Treatment Approach
At Wasatch Peak Physical Therapy, we know that the key to successful rehabilitation is an individualized treatment approach. That’s why we perform comprehensive evaluations to get a better understanding of your movement mechanics, strength and flexibility, and identify contributing factors like muscle tightness or weakness.
Targeted Exercises
Depending on the cause of your patellar tendonitis, we’ll guide you through exercises designed to correct muscle imbalances, improve flexibility and mobility, restore knee alignment, reduce stress on the knee, and ensure stability.
We’ll train you in proper jumping and landing mechanics, help you adjust your gait while running, and run you through sport-specific drills to improve your performance. As the tendon strengthens, we’ll gradually increase the intensity of the exercises until you can return to normal activity.
Pain Management and Inflammation Reduction
Along with guiding you through exercises, we’ll employ pain management and inflammation reduction techniques such as ice, heat, or electrical stimulation (TENS). Soft tissue work can also help to reduce tension in the IT band or quads, providing additional pain relief.
Continual Support
Finally, we’ll provide long-term support as you gradually resume training, including at-home exercises designed to maintain your strength. We’ll also educate you on how to prevent re-injury and keep your knees functioning properly.
Start Your Recovery Today with Wasatch Peak Physical Therapy
Don’t let the pain of patellar tendonitis stop you from participating in the activities you love. Reach out to Wasatch Peak Physical Therapy today to schedule an appointment and learn more about how we can help you find the relief you’ve been looking for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Patellar Tendonitis Heal on its Own?
Mild cases may improve with rest, but most people experience significant benefits from physical therapy’s strengthening and movement correction exercises.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Most people see improvement within a few weeks of physical therapy, but the time required for full recovery can vary based on the injury’s severity. Your physical therapist will evaluate your condition and come up with a more specific timeline based on your needs and goals.
Can I Still Play Sports if I Have Patellar Tendonitis?
With guidance from a physical therapist, some activity may be okay. We’ll outline a safe progression for you so you can get back to your sports without worsening your injury.