What is jumpers knee?

The patellar tendon (or ligament) connects the kneecap to the tibia bone. When jumping in a manner as often seen in Parkour, partial ruptures can occur and this often leads to inflammation and degeneration of the tissue. Inflammation can also result from overuse. Anyone who has suffered from patellar tendinitis will tell you that it is no picnic, and may well be one of the worst long-term injuries a traceur can receive. It puts you out for a long stretch, at the very least, and can require surgery at the worst.
 

Basic knee anatomy, showing the patella (kneecap) in the front of the joint. The patella is connected to the quadriceps (frontal thigh) muscle above it by way of the quadriceps tendon. It is connected to the tibia below by the patellar tendon. The latter tendon is much more commonly afflicted with tendinitis than the former.

Diagram demonstrating the most common site of the inflammation that characterizes patellar tendinitis.

What are the symptoms?

• Pain at the bottom of the kneecap especially when pressing in.
• Aching and stiffness after exertion.
• Pain when you contract the quadriceps muscles.

Level 1: Pain only after training

• Continue training but apply ice or cold therapy to the injury after each training session.
• Wear a heat retainer or support.
• See a sports injury specialist / therapist who can apply sports massage techniques and advise on rehabilitation. An eccentric strengthening programme is generally recommended.

Level 2: Pain before and after exercise but pain reduces once warmed up.

• Modify training activities to reduce the load on the tendon. Stop jumping or sprinting activities and replace them with steady running or swimming / running in water if necessary.
• See a sports injury specialist / therapist who can apply sports massage techniques and advise on rehabilitation.

Level 3: Pain during activity which prevents you from training / performing at your best.

• Rest completely from the aggravating activity. Replace it with swimming / running in water (if pain allows).
• See a sports injury specialist / therapist who can apply sports massage techniques and advise on rehabilitation.

Level 4: Pain during every day activities which may or may not be getting worse.

• Rest for a long period of time (at least 3 months!).
• See a sports injury specialist / therapist who can apply sports massage techniques and advise on rehabilitation.
• If the knee does not respond to rehabilitation then consult an Orthopaedic Surgeon as surgery may be required.

What can be done by a specialist?

If the injury becomes chronic then surgery is a possible option. A lateral release of the patellar tendon is usually successful, but it is far better not to let matters get this far. Take it into your own hands and practise carefully and with consideration for your body. After all, you’ve only got one and it has to last you a lifetime.

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