3DPT’s NFL Injury Review: Patellar Tendonitis (Jumper’s Knee)

It’s week two of 3DPT’s football injury series and this week’s topic is Jumper’s Knee, medically known as patellar tendonitis.  This condition might sound like a mere inconvenience, but it’s essential to recognize its prevalence, symptoms, and what’s happening under the hood.

 Prevalence: Studies show that up to 20% of jumping athletes could experience Jumper’s Knee at some point in their careers. While volleyball players and basketball players are most at risk for jumper’s knee, football players are also at risk because of the explosive movements required in the sport.

Symptoms: Jumper’s Knee typically manifests as localized pain just below the kneecap, which can be aggravated during activities like jumping, running, or squatting. Over time, the pain might become more persistent and affect daily activities. Swelling and tenderness around the patellar tendon area can also accompany the discomfort.

Physiology: So, what’s going on physiologically? Jumper’s Knee primarily involves the patellar tendon – the tough band of tissue connecting the kneecap to the shinbone. The repeated stress placed on this tendon from activities involving jumping can lead to micro-tears and inflammation. As a result, the body initiates a healing response, which can cause the tendon to thicken. While this might sound like a protective mechanism, the increased thickness can further impede proper healing and contribute to ongoing pain.
Furthermore chronic inflammation can increase the likelihood of a tendon rupture. Last year, we covered Kansas City Chiefs Offensive Tackle, Lucas Niang’s Patellar Tendon rupture. This injury typically takes at east 6 months to heal from. Click here to read more about Niang’s injury.

Managing and Preventing: If you’re dealing with Jumper’s Knee, here are a few strategies:

• POLICE Protocol: Protect, Optimally Load, Ice, Compression, and Elevation can help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Strengthening Exercises: Targeting the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calf muscles can provide better support to the knee joint.
• Proper Technique: Ensuring proper jumping and landing mechanics can reduce unnecessary stress on the patellar tendon.
• Gradual Progression: Avoid sudden increases in training intensity or volume, giving your body ample time to adapt.
• Consult a Professional: If the pain persists or worsens, seek guidance from a sports medicine professional or physical therapist.

In this video, Dr. Benjamin Harris demonstrates a few exercises to help Jumper’s knee.