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    5. Patellar Tendonitis

    Patellar Tendonitis

    At Mayo Clinic Healthcare in London, our orthopaedic and sports medicine specialists assess and manage knee conditions such as patellar tendonitis, a common source of activity-related pain. Through detailed clinical evaluation and advanced imaging, we identify the underlying causes of knee tendonitis and guide effective, non-surgical care. 

    Our team combines expertise in musculoskeletal medicine, physiotherapy, and diagnostic imaging to deliver precise diagnoses and tailored care plans. Using tools such as ultrasound and MRI, we assess tendon health accurately and recommend the most appropriate treatment of tendonitis in the knee based on your symptoms, activity level, and recovery goals. 

    • Patellar tendonitis, also known as jumper’s knee, is a condition involving irritation or degeneration of the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia). 

      The patellar tendon plays a key role in straightening the knee and supporting movements such as walking, running, and jumping. Repeated stress on the tendon can lead to inflammation or small tears, resulting in pain and reduced function. 

      Patellar tendonitis is a common cause of knee pain in people who take part in repetitive or high-demanded activities. Early assessment and appropriate treatment of tendonitis in the knee can help prevent the condition from becoming chronic.

    • Symptoms of patellar tendonitis often develop gradually and may worsen with activity. 

      Common symptoms include: 

      • Pain just below the kneecap 
      • Tenderness along the patellar tendon 
      • Pain during physical activity, especially jumping or running 
      • Stiffness after rest 
      • Weakness or reduced strength in the leg 

      In the early stages, pain may only occur during exercise. Over time, symptoms can become more persistent and begin to affect everyday activities. 

      If left untreated, discomfort may occur only during exercise. Over time, symptoms can persist and interfere with daily activities. 

      Without timely evaluation, tendon irritation may progress, making effective treatment of tendonitis in the knee more challenging. 

    • Understanding the causes of knee tendonitis is essential for effective treatment and prevention. 

      Patellar tendonitis typically results from repetitive strain on the tendon, particularly when load increases without adequate recovery. 

      Common causes of knee tendonitis include: 

      • Repetitive jumping or running 
      • Sudden increases in training intensity or activity
      • Muscle imbalance or weakness in the legs 
      • Tight quadriceps or hamstrings 
      • Poor movement mechanics or technique 

      Risk factors may include: 

      • Participation in sports such as football, basketball, rugby, etc 
      • Inadequate warm-up or stretching 
      • Previous knee injuries 

      As symptoms can overlap with other conditions, proper assessment is important to confirm the diagnosis.

    • You should consider specialist assessment if you experience: 

      • Persistent knee pain not improving with rest 
      • Pain that worsens during activity 
      • Difficulty walking, running, or exercising 
      • Ongoing stiffness or weakness in the knee 

      Early diagnosis allows for more effective treatment of tendonitis in the knee and may help prevent long-term tendon damage. 

    • At Mayo Clinic Healthcare, diagnosis begins with a detailed consultation. Your specialist will review your symptoms, activity level, and medical history before recommending appropriate tests. 

      Diagnostic tests may include: 

      • Physical examination, assessing pain location, movement, and tendon response
      • Ultrasound imaging, to evaluate the tendon structure, inflammation, or degeneration
      • MRI scans, providing detailed images of the tendon and surrounding soft tissues 

      These investigations provide a clear picture of tendon health and help guide the most effective treatment of tendonitis in the knee. 

    • Treatment focuses on reducing pain, supporting tendon healing, and restoring strength and function. At Mayo Clinic Healthcare, care is tailored to your individual symptoms and activity level, with an emphasis on non-surgical management. 

      Treatment options may include: 

      • Physiotherapy, focusing on strengthening and flexibility 
      • Activity modification, reducing strain on the tendon
      • Pain management strategies, including anti-inflammatory strategies and medication
      • Rehabilitation programmes, designed to support gradual return to activity 
      • Image guided injections, where appropriate, to reduce inflammation and support recovery
      • Surgery, when appropriate and other measures fail 

      Most cases improve significantly with structured, non-surgical care. Early intervention supports better outcomes and reduces recovery time. 

      Your consultant will develop a personalised plan based on your symptoms and the underlying causes of knee tendonitis, helping you return to activity safely. 

    • At Mayo Clinic Healthcare, patients benefit from: 

      Access to internationally recognised orthopaedic and sports medicine expertise

      A coordinated, multidisciplinary approach involving physiotherapy and advanced imaging

      Evidence-based treatment planning tailored to your lifestyle and goals

      State-of-the-art diagnostic facilities

      A central London location for convenient access

    Private health insurance

    Mayo Clinic Healthcare London works with all major private health insurance providers, including AXA PPP, Aviva, BUPA, Health Partners Group, Vitality Health and WPA. 

    Self-pay arrangements are also available, and our team can guide you through pricing and appointment availability.

    Book a patellar tendonitis assessment 

    If you are experiencing knee pain or symptoms of tendonitis, early assessment can help support recovery and help prevent long term issues. 

    ​Request an appointment today or call +44 (0) 207 871 2575 to receive expert evaluation and a personalised treatment of tendonitis in the knee, designed to reduce pain, restore movement, and support your long-term tendon health. 

    Home
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    2. Specialties
    3. Orthopaedics
    4. Knee Orthopaedics
    5. Patellar Tendonitis