patellotendinopátia

Patellotendinopathy, often referred to as Jumper's Knee, is a common overuse injury affecting the patellar tendon. This tendon connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia) and plays a crucial role in extending the knee during activities like jumping, running, and squatting. The condition is characterized by pain and inflammation in this tendon, typically felt just below the kneecap.

The primary cause of patellotendinopathy is repetitive stress on the patellar tendon. This can occur due to sudden increases in training intensity or volume, inadequate warm-up or cool-down routines, poor biomechanics, or insufficient rest between activities. Certain sports that involve frequent explosive movements, such as basketball, volleyball, and track and field, place individuals at a higher risk.

Symptoms usually include localized pain below the kneecap, which may worsen with activity and improve with rest. Tenderness to touch in the affected area is also common. In more severe cases, swelling might be present. Diagnosis is typically made through a physical examination and a review of the patient's medical history and symptoms. Imaging techniques like ultrasound or MRI may be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the tendon damage.

Treatment for patellotendinopathy focuses on reducing pain and inflammation, restoring function, and preventing recurrence. Rest from aggravating activities is often the first step. This may be combined with ice application, pain medication (such as NSAIDs), and physical therapy. Physical therapy commonly involves exercises to strengthen the quadriceps and hamstring muscles, improve flexibility, and address any biomechanical issues. Eccentric exercises, where the muscle lengthens under load, are particularly beneficial for tendon healing. In persistent or severe cases, other treatments like corticosteroid injections, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, or surgery might be considered, though these are less common.