How Sports Therapy Can Help with Patella Tendinitis
Patella tendinitis, often called jumper’s knee, is a common overuse injury that affects the tendon connecting the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia). It’s frequently seen in athletes who take part in sports involving repetitive jumping, sprinting, or heavy loading of the knees—such as basketball, football, CrossFit, or running. The condition can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness at the front of the knee, often making training and daily movement uncomfortable.
Sports therapy offers a targeted approach to managing patella tendinitis, aiming not only to reduce pain but also to address the underlying causes and prevent recurrence.
What Causes Patella Tendinitis?
This condition usually develops due to repetitive stress on the knee, leading to tiny tears and inflammation in the patella tendon. Contributing factors include:
Sudden increases in training intensity or load
Poor biomechanics or muscle imbalances
Tight quadriceps, hamstrings, or calf muscles
Weak glutes or core stability issues
Inadequate recovery between sessions
How Sports Therapy Can Help
1. Pain and Inflammation Management
Sports therapists use techniques such as soft tissue massage, myofascial release, and taping to help reduce discomfort and promote healing in the early stages.
2. Improving Flexibility and Mobility
Tight muscles around the knee can increase strain on the patella tendon. Stretching and mobility work—targeting the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves—help restore balance and reduce pressure on the tendon.
3. Strengthening Programmes
Progressive strengthening, particularly of the quadriceps and glutes, is key to recovery. Sports therapists guide patients through specific exercises (such as eccentric loading of the quadriceps) to rebuild tendon strength and resilience.
4. Correcting Movement Patterns
Poor biomechanics, such as knee valgus during squats or jumps, can overload the tendon. Sports therapists assess movement patterns and provide corrective exercises to improve alignment and technique.
5. Education and Load Management
One of the most important roles of sports therapy is helping patients understand how to manage training loads. Advice on pacing, recovery, and gradual progression reduces the risk of reinjury.
Benefits of Sports Therapy for Patella Tendinitis
Reduced pain and stiffness
Improved flexibility and strength
Correction of faulty movement patterns
Faster return to sport or activity
Long-term prevention of recurrence
Final Thoughts
Patella tendinitis can be frustrating, especially for athletes keen to maintain performance. However, with the right approach, recovery is achievable. Sports therapy provides not just symptom relief but also practical, long-term strategies to build strength, improve movement, and prevent future flare-ups.
At Wimborne Wellness Centre, our sports therapists work closely with patients to create tailored treatment and rehabilitation plans to get them moving confidently again.
If knee pain is holding you back, book a session today and take the first step towards recovery.