Inflammation of the tendon that connects the kneecap to the shinbone. The cause of patellar tendinitis is overuse, usually during athletic activity, which produces microscopic tears in the tiny fibers of the tissue. These tears can stretch the patellar tendon and cause painful inflammation. Symptoms include pain when running or jogging and localized tenderness when pressure is applied to the point just below the kneecap where the patellar tendon connects the kneecap to the shinbone.
Also known as jumper’s knee, this is inflammation of the tendon of the extensor muscle of the thigh, in which the patella or knee-cap is secured. Usually the result of injury or excessive use or stress for example, in athletic training symptoms may include pain, tenderness, and restricted movement of the parent muscle. Treatment may include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), ultrasound treatment and physiotherapy, and, if persistent, injection of a corticosteroid drug around the tendon.