How to Use a Patellar Tendonitis Strap

The patellar tendon encases the kneecap (patella) and connects the quadriceps muscles on the front of the thigh with the top of the shinbone (tibia). The pressure of a patellar tendon strap reduces the tendon's cross section so that less pressure is applied to it. The pressure also counters inflammation at its insertion point on the tibia. Further, some distributors claim that patellar bands counter mistracking and jarring of the patellar tendon. (Mistracking is the leading cause of patellar tendonitis.) Pattelar tendonitis bands also go by the name "jumper's knee strap," "knee band" and "cho-pat knee strap."

Things You'll Need

• Patellar tendonitis strap

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Instructions

• 1

  Wear the band below the kneecap. Ensure that the strap is distal to (far from) the kneecap; it should be above the lowest point of the tendon. With a dual-action cho-pat strap, the larger of the two bands wraps around the leg above the kneecap.

• 2

  Keep the silicone-gel or rubber-tube portion of the strap over the tendon. Center the flat portion on the back of the leg. Keep the buckle on the side of the leg in order to avoid pinching the back of the knee or the tendon in front.

• 3

  Wear it throughout the day when exerting the knee, not just for exercise. Injured patellar tendons suffer damage throughout the day, particularly from the eccentric contractions of walking, and can therefore benefit from the support.