Understanding Patellar Tendonitis (Jumper’s Knee): Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options

Patellar tendonitis, often referred to as jumper's knee, is a common overuse injury that affects the tendon connecting your kneecap (patella) to your shinbone (tibia). It primarily impacts athletes who participate in sports that involve frequent jumping, sprinting, or abrupt changes in direction-think basketball, volleyball, soccer, and track and field.

If you've been experiencing sharp pain just below the kneecap, especially during activity, you may be dealing with this frustrating but manageable condition. In this post, we'll break down the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and how bracing can play a key role in recovery.

What Is Patellar Tendonitis?

Patellar tendonitis occurs when the patellar tendon becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress or strain. This tendon is responsible for helping you extend your knee, making it critical for walking, jumping, and running.

Common Causes Include:

• Repetitive jumping or running

• Sudden increases in training intensity or volume

• Muscle imbalances or poor biomechanics

• Tight quadriceps or hamstrings

• Improper footwear or training surface

Over time, this microtrauma can lead to degenerative changes in the tendon-a more serious stage called patellar tendinopathy.

Symptoms of Patellar Tendonitis

• Pain and tenderness directly beneath the kneecap

• Swelling in the front of the knee

• Discomfort during squatting, running, or climbing stairs

• Stiffness after activity or prolonged sitting

• Weakness or instability in the knee

Symptoms often start mild but can worsen over time if left untreated.

How to Treat Patellar Tendonitis

1. Rest and Activity Modification

Reducing high-impact activities is critical in the early stages. Switch to low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling until symptoms improve.

2. Ice and Anti-Inflammatory Care

Icing the knee for 15-20 minutes after activity and using NSAIDs (with physician approval) can reduce inflammation.

3. Stretching and Strengthening

Focus on eccentric exercises for the quadriceps, stretching of the hamstrings and calves, and improving hip mobility. Physical therapy is often recommended.

4. Wearing a Knee Brace or Strap

Using a knee brace for patellar tendonitis can provide targeted compression, unload the tendon, and allow for safer movement during recovery.

We recommend choosing a brace that matches your level of pain and activity. Visit our curated collection of patellar tendonitis knee braces to find the best support for your needs.

Do Knee Braces Really Help?

Yes-when chosen appropriately, patellar tendon straps and braces can significantly reduce pain during activity. They work by:

• Applying pressure below the kneecap to reduce tendon strain

• Improving patellar tracking and joint stability

• Allowing you to stay active without worsening the injury

Many athletes find they can return to training sooner with a proper brace in place, especially when combined with physical therapy.

When to See a Doctor

If rest, bracing, and conservative care don't relieve your symptoms within a few weeks-or if the pain is interfering with daily life-it's time to consult a sports medicine doctor or orthopedic specialist. In some cases, imaging (like an MRI) is needed to rule out more serious tendon damage or patellar tracking disorders.

Final Thoughts

Patellar tendonitis may be common, but it doesn't have to sideline your activity long-term. With the right combination of rest, rehab, and bracing, you can reduce pain, restore mobility, and prevent recurrence.

If you're looking for expert-recommended braces to help manage your condition, explore our full selection of knee braces for patellar tendonitis now.