Patella Tendinopathy

Patella tendinopathy is one of the most common causes of pain at the front of the knee. The patella tendon attaches the knee cap to the shin bone and is loaded via the quadricep (thigh) muscles. In patella tendinopathy the tendon becomes irritated and typically affects people who place large amounts of force through their quadricep muscles, such as sports that involve repetitive jumping or changing direction.

There are many factors that can contribute to excessive force through the patella tendon. Some of these include:

• Excessive or rapid increase in training load
• Poor foot posture or inappropriate footwear
• Inadequate stretching
• Hip, knee or ankle muscle weakness

• Pain at the front of the knee that might initially “warm-up” with exercise but then increases
• Swelling over the front of the knee
• Knee pain and stiffness after rest

Your physiotherapist will also assess and correct any contributing factors which cause patella tendinopathy. In turn, you should expect a reduction of pain and dysfunction. Treatment might include:

• Advice on appropriate training loads
• Advice on appropriate footwear or orthotics
• Hands-on treatment to address any associated muscle tightness
• Rehabilitation exercise to improve leg strength and mobility.