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HOMEPAGE |
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| KNEE | SHOULDER | FOOT and ANKLE | BACK and NECK | ELBOW and WRIST | HIP and PELVIS | COMPLETE INDEX |
Diagnosis |
PATELLAR TENDONITIS |
| Definition | Inflammation and degeneration of the tendon that connects the kneecap (Patella) to the shin bone (Tibia).
Picture of Normal Knee Model and X-ray of a Normal Knee |
| Details | This disorder is seen in athletes that engage in running and jumping type sports such as basketball or volleyball. It is characterized by pain in the front of the knee that ranges from a dull ache to severe and sharp pain. As the inflammation progresses pain will occur during sports and then maybe even at rest. |
| Causes | Patellar tendonitis is an overuse syndrome. Repetitive or power jumping contributes to swelling and inflammation in the patellar tendon. If untreated, small tears and degeneration of the tendon may occur. Poor muscle flexibility may also be responsible for causing patellar tendonitis. |
| Diagnosis | Patellar tendonitis is diagnosed when an athlete complains of pain in the front of the knee coupled with tenderness
over the area between the knee cap (Patella) and the shin bone (Tibia). Xrays may show a high riding kneecap. Occasionally,
an MRI scan or ultrasound is employed to confirm the extent of the patellar tendon involvement. Knee Physical Exam--Patellar Tendonitis |
| Treatment | Phase I: Control of pain and inflammation with REST, icing, stretching and anti-inflammatory medication Phase II: Restoration of strength and function via Physical Therapy program Modalities such as ultrasound, cortisone cream, straps and taping may also be used. Phase III: Continue therapy program to include sport specific drills and testing. Resume activity or sports when symptoms have completely resolved. If nonoperative treatment measures fail, surgery may be needed to cut away the inflammation and stimulate healing of the tendon. A diagnostic knee arthroscopy may be done at the same time to rule internal causes of the knee pain. |
| Prevention |
Avoid overusing your knee by cross-training copyright www.emedx.com |
