What Can You Do to Repair Jumper's Knee or Patella Tendonitis?

Like other types of tendinitis, patellar tendinitis may start as pain that presents when activity starts or ends and progress to a constant ache that lasts all day and makes sleep difficult at night. Tendinitis is inflammation of the tendons, usually caused by strain. Athletic activity involving the tendon that connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone, such as kicking, pushing pedals, or jumping may increase the risk for patellar tendinitis, also known as jumper's knee. Obesity, inflexibility, misalignment and structural abnormality as well as uneven muscle strength can also affect tendon function and vulnerability.

Reduce Strain

• Over time, stress on the patellar tendon results in tiny tears in tendon tissue. The body repairs these until it is overwhelmed by continuing damage; an inflammatory response results in pain and necessitates rest. While it is not necessary to become completely immobile, stop any activity that causes pain. Failure to rest the patellar tendon can result in greater damage and a longer recovery time. Even for mild cases of jumper's knee, weeks or months may be needed to heal. If surgery is necessary, recovery time may extend to a year or more.

  Doctors at the Mayo Clinic suggest self-care measures at the first signs of knee pain, including taking a break from activities that cause pain, elevation of the knee higher than the heart during a portion of the day or night to improve circulation, cold packs to reduce swelling and pain, and support in the form of elastic bandage or knee wrap device while standing or walking. Heat therapy can also increase circulation and can be alternated with cold packs.

Relieve Inflammation

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, can be purchased over-the-counter and taken as directed to relieve pain. Some foods may have anti-inflammatory properties as well, including cherries, ginger, cayenne pepper and pineapple, according to Phyllis Balch, nutritionist and author of Prescription for Nutritional Healing. Balch also recommends methylsufonylmethane, or MSM, an organic form of sulfur, as a supplement with therapeutic properties to reduce pain, inflammation and aid healing. Many nutrients are needed for tissue repair; it is wise to take a multivitamin and mineral complex when recovering from any injury.

Stretching and Strengthening

• Worsening, persistent pain and severely restricted mobility are reasons to consult a physician. Diagnosis might be made by symptoms and examination, or ultrasonography or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to rule out other conditions such as a cartilage tear under the kneecap.
  Professional advice concerning body mechanics and exercises to treat patellar tendinitis might include the use of elastic bands, hydrotherapy or massage. Physical therapists can provide individualized instructions, for instance it can be beneficial to strengthen the quadriceps muscles to relieve the workload of the patellar tendon, thus decreasing pain and improving function.