Patellar Tendonitis also known as Runners Knee is a condition that occurs when there is inflammation in the patellar tendon.  The Patellar Tendon is the tendon that connects the patella(kneecap) to the top of the Tibia(shin bone).  Inflammation is the body’s response to stress/injury, it is naturally occurring in the body and helps guide healing properties to the area of injury.  Tendonitis occurs when inflammation floods the area and doesn’t leave because of the constant stress response to the area, causing pain and limitations.  This injury occurs most commonly from repetitive use.  Individuals that are active and physical are more susceptible to this injury – runners, cyclists, weightlifters, and physical labor jobs.

Symptoms of this injury are ache pain in the bottom of the knee, sharp/stabbing pain below the knee, tightness, and tenderness at the knee.  This will cause issues with bending at the knee, squatting, lunging, kneeling down, walking, sitting to standing, climbing and descending stairs, and more.  If left untreated this injury may become worse and cause possibilities for damaging the tendon.

The best course of action for this issue is to seek professional help to properly evaluate and diagnose the injury.  This will help the professional build a treatment plan that best fits the injury as well as the individual.  A proper treatment plan for this injury is Manual therapy to decrease stress in the muscle, improve muscle function, increase blood flow and decrease pain.  Mobilization of the pelvis, hips, and knees to create better and healthier joint function.  Stability and strength work to support the joints and muscles as well as prevent injury.  And finally, a proper self-care program for the individual to manage the injury on their own.