Jumper's knee

Jumper's knee is a sports injury that can also be referred to as patellar tendinitis. The injury is a type of repetitive strain injury and occurs in a tendon in the knee. The definition of patellar tendinitis is used if the problem is preceded by inflammation, but there can also be pain without inflammation. It is then called patellar tendinosis or patellofemoral pain syndrome. Jumper's knee always causes some degree of pain.

The diagnosis of jumper's knee occurs in various contexts, but is most common in sports where people run and jump a lot. Football, handball and high jump athletes are particularly represented when it comes to problems with jumper's knee. The injury, which is located on the upper part of the patellar tendon, occurs when the patellar tendon is subjected to excessive strain or a repeated incorrect movement pattern. It is one of the most common overuse injuries of the knee joint in athletes. Different degrees of the injury can manifest themselves in different ways, such as pain before, during and/or after activity.

Treatment of jumper's knee can be done through eccentric strength training and physiotherapy. Problems that do not go away may require surgery. Prevention of jumper's knee requires the athlete to train properly and build up strength and stability around the knee. As with all training, you should warm up properly before increasing the load. It is important to practise good technique and not to put undue strain on the knee during training.

There is also a wide range of different knee supports that provide relief and pain relief for those affected by jumper's knee. A knee brace can also be used for preventive purposes.