What is Jumper’s Knee?

Jumper’s knee, also called patellar tendinitis, is a condition that affects the tendon just below your kneecap. This tendon helps your knee straighten and supports movements like walking, running, and jumping. Repeated stress can irritate the tendon, leading to pain over time.

Common causes and risk factors:

• Repetitive jumping or high-impact sports
• Sudden increase in training intensity
• Tight or weak leg muscles
• Hard playing surfaces
• Frequent strain from running or landing movements

Symptoms

Jumper’s knee usually develops gradually with repeated use of the knee.

Common symptoms include:

• Pain just below the kneecap
• Tenderness in the front of the knee
• Swelling around the tendon
• Pain during activity, especially jumping or running
• Discomfort when bending or straightening the leg

How is it diagnosed?

Your provider will begin with a physical exam and ask about your activity level and symptoms. They will check for pain, swelling, and range of motion in your knee. Imaging tests, such as an X-ray or more detailed scans, may be used to rule out other problems or assess tendon damage.

How is it treated?

Treatment usually starts with simple, noninvasive steps to reduce strain on the knee.

Conservative treatments may include:

• Taking a break from activities that cause pain
• Using ice to reduce swelling
• Anti-inflammatory medications to ease discomfort
• Elevating the leg when resting
• Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility
• Low-dose radiation therapy

As your symptoms improve, your provider may guide you in safely returning to activity. In rare cases where symptoms do not improve, more advanced treatments may be considered.

Recovery time varies, but most people heal well when they allow the tendon time to rest and follow a structured rehab plan.