Patellar tendinopathy (or tendonitis) is a painful condition that affects the patellar tendon across the knee. Because of the great stress that is placed on the patellar tendon during jumping sports, it is often referred to as Jumper’s Knee.
Patellar tendinopathy describes damage to and subsequent inflammation of the patellar tendon. This is the tendon that runs across the front of the knee and attaches the quadriceps and the patella (kneecap) to the tibia (shin bone). It works to both help straighten the knee from a bent position, as well as to protect the knee joint by helping keep the patella in place. The patella tendon (and quadriceps from where it originates) play an essential role in our ability to run, kick, jump, and generally move our legs.
Patellar tendinopathy is typically an overuse injury in high-impact sports, occurring when the tendon is repeatedly stressed and
overloaded. This results in small tears through the tendon fibres and the onset of symptoms. An example of such overloading is repetitive
jumping (and landing) like in volleyball or netball, as well as sports where players start and stop quickly, and often change direction.
Additional causes include:
Without adequate management and recovery, the damage to the patellar tendon may result in long-term weakness with ongoing issues. This is the case for most of the older population that develop patellar tendinopathy, where damage to the patellar tendon has accumulated over time.
Symptoms of patellar tendinopathy can include:
If you have knee pain and suspect you may have patellar tendinopathy, you’ll want to take care and ensure to get it checked by your podiatrist. While it may start out as an uncomfortable niggle, it can weaken significantly and become a longstanding (chronic) tendinopathy with a very long recovery time to get the tendon back to its full strength and function. Proper care and management at the early stages stops this progression and helps restore your tendon to its healthy, fully functioning state in a much faster time and with much less effort.
Patellar tendinitis, often referred to as “jumper’s knee,” is an overuse injury affecting the tendon that connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone. It’s commonly seen in athletes and active individuals — especially those involved in running, jumping, or sudden directional changes. Effective treatment focuses on reducing inflammation, improving tendon health, and correcting biomechanical load.
Depending on your symptoms and how long they’ve been present, your treatment may include:
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If you’re unsure whether you should wear walking or running shoes when exercising, this article is for you.
We explain the differences between walking and running shoes and how to determine which one is best for your feet. When it comes to buying a new pair of shoes, most people walk into a store expecting to just “find something comfy.” Then, suddenly, you’re asked: Are you looking for
walking shoes or running shoes? And that’s where the confusion begins. Because for many people, the answer isn’t that simple.
You could walk a lot – to work, around the block, chasing after the kids, or while catching up with friends. You could have also just joined
a gym or registered for the Couch to 5km. Or you could be a walker who just wants the option to go for a run if the mood strikes. So, which
shoe do you pick?
Discover why foot health is so important as we age and how Perform Podiatry supports seniors in staying mobile, independent, and pain-free. From diabetic care to personalised treatment plans, we’re here to help keep your feet happy and healthy, every step of the way.
Discover how Class IV Laser Therapy at Perform Podiatry offers powerful, drug-free relief for foot and ankle pain. Backed by science, this advanced treatment helps you heal faster and move better, without the need for surgery or medication.
Keeping your family on their feet and helping them to walk, run, play and exceed their goals is why we love getting up in the morning.
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