Patellar Tendonitis

[megan42095]

I've been to an orthopedic twice now. He diagnosed me with patellar tendonitis, or jumper's knee. It hurts just to walk on it, and whenever I'm reading online, I see to rest it and discontinue any activity that aggravates the knee or causes pain. I was curious whether I should be using crutches or not, I just don't want to make it worse. The orthopedic didn't say anything about it, and just gave me a NSAID cream to put on it for the swelling and what-not.

[sara_eagle]

Did your Dr. give you a strap for you to wear??  Here is a link that shows what I'm talking about...http://www.amazon.com/Patellar-Tendon-Strap-Size-Large/dp/tech-data/B000E6DRUK

Physical therapy will also help!  Talk to your Dr. about crutches if walking is causing that much pain.  

[megan42095]

You said that during the episode of pain if I use crutches, then do not do any weight bearing on the affected knee. I am curious as to whether I should be using crutches or not because it hurts just to walk on it, so walking aggravates it.

[Dr Vinod]

Hello!

The patellar tendon is located between your kneecap and the tibia and the injury is an inflammation of the patellar tendon. During the episode of pain if you use crutches then it is important not to do any weight bearing on the affected knee.  You can apply ice packs when your knee is painful, after physical activity as this reduces your pain and inflammation.

Resting from aggravating activities such as running and jogging allows time for recovery and healing. You should also practice stretching activities. You should consider physiotherapy to strengthen your quadriceps and hamstrings.


This can be accomplished with simple exercises like straight leg raises, leg press, hamstring curls, lunges etc. Ask any certified trainer for more ways to strengthen your lower extremity muscles.

Take care!