Jumpers Knee

What is Jumpers Knee?
Jumpers Knee is the term used to describe patellar tendonitis. Jumpers knee injuries are suffered in sports where the athlete overworks the quadriceps or thigh muscles and is most common in sports where a lot of jumping is used.  Therefore, how the injury became diagnosed as jumper’s knee. Jumpers knee is a very common knee injury suffered in sports such as volleyball and basketball where the athlete is constantly elevating or jumping off of the ground. Most people suffer from painful jumpers knee symptoms over the patella tendon which is located directly below the knee. Following an injury to the patella tendon, it is important to fit yourself with the proper brace to help provide the stability that you will need in the knee and to prevent further damage.

Medical Definition of Jumpers Knee
Extensor mechanism tendinitis is an overuse or overload syndrome involving either the quadriceps tendon at its insertion point on the patella or the patellar tendon at its insertion point on the tibia. This condition is most often referred to as jumper’s knee. Younger adults below the age of 40 with this condition often engage in jumping sports or have erratic exercise habits. This knee injury can also affect older individuals after a lifting strain or a significant change in exercise level. Weight gain can also lead to jumpers knee.

Synonyms
- Patellar Tendinitis
- Extensor Mechanism Tendinitis

What are the symptoms of Jumpers Knee
- Pain in the anterior or front portion of the knee known as the hallmark.
- There is typically a tender spot where the symptoms are concentrated.
- Pain noticed at the end of exercising or when sitting down following exercise.
- Climbing stairs, running, and jumping aggravate the knee injury.

Related Injuries
- Runners Knee
- Knee Arthritis

Treatment of Jumpers Knee
- Phase 1 of jumpers knee treatment should include the following.
   o    Rest for 3-5 days; possibly up to 3 weeks.
   o    Proper usage of NSAIDS to help alleviate any pain.
   o    Do not use corticosteroid injections.

- Phase 2 of jumpers knee treatment should include the following.
   o    Regaining range of motion with stretching and strengthening exercises.
   o    Exercises should be focused on the quadriceps and hamstrings.
   o    Ultrasound should be used by your trainer or physical therapist.
   o    Use of a knee sleeve or wrap at the level of the patellar tendon may help.

- Phase 3 of jumpers knee treatment should include the following.
   o    Gradually working back into activities that caused the jumpers knee symptoms.
   o    Continue stretching and strengthening exercise.
   o    Apply heat before exercises and use ice after exercising.

Related Anatomy
- Knee

Sports
- Basketball
- Volleyball

Related Articles
- How to Rehab Your Knee After ACL Surgery
- The Best Ways to Prevent Knee Injuries

References
Greene W.B. (Ed). (2001). Essentials of Musculoskeletal Care.Rosemont, IL: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (393-394)