Jumper’s knee otherwise known as “patellar tendonitis” is a knee injury that is typically caused by overuse from sports that require frequent jumping and landing. It differs from a knee sprain because it involves the tendon vs the ligaments of the knee. The patellar tendon connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia). The condition is characterized by inflammation of the patellar tendon causing pain and discomfort with bending and straightening your knee. 

Risks factors typically include people who participate in activities that require frequent jumping, such as basketball, volleyball, and running. Many factors can play a role, such as playing surfaces, footwear and muscle imbalances. 

Jumper’s knee can start with low level pain and tenderness (mild cases) to prolonged pain and discomfort that won’t go away unless treated. 

Jumper’s knee, also known as patellar tendonitis, is caused by overuse of the knee joint from repetitive jumps typically on hard surfaces. Activities involving frequent jumping and rapid acceleration, or deceleration can place excessive strain on the patellar tendon which can lead to inflammation of the tendon. Over time microtears develop in the tendon causing inflammation and pain.  This can reduce the knee’s ability to be a knee stabilizer.  Jumper’s knee typically occurs in sports such as basketball, volleyball and track and field. This condition can develop from various factors such as: 

1. 1. Type of movement: Sports that require frequent jumping and landing 
2. 2. Muscle imbalances: Weak or tight muscles of the lower leg can alter knee mechanics 
3. 3. Playing surfaces: Hard or uneven playing surfaces that increase impact on the knees 
4. 4. Footwear: Inadequate or worn-out shoes that do not provide sufficient support or cushioning 
5. 5. Age: Higher risk in younger athletes due to rapid growth spurts and skeletal immaturity

The healing time from jumper’s knee (patellar tendonitis) can vary depending on severity of the condition, the individual’s overall health, and the effectiveness of treatment. Generally, healing outcomes look like the following: 

1.  1. Mild cases: May heal within a few weeks given the proper treatment and healing protocol
2. 2. Moderate cases: May take weeks to months depending on treatment, resting from sport or continuing to play 
3. 3. Severe/Chronic cases: May take several months to heal and can turn into a tendonosis (chronic condition characterized by degeneration of the tendon. 

Being proactive with jumper’s knee is the key to reducing overall healing times and promoting recovery.

EVAN JEFFRIES is a physical therapist with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. He has vast knowledge of the musculoskeletal system and has treated many orthopedic conditions by bringing a proactive approach to healthcare and lifestyle.