Coping with Patellar Tendonitis
What Can A Knee Doctor In NYC Do For You?
Basketball players who jump high to shoot or volleyball players that are constantly in the air to spike, pain in the kneecaps are common and can occur. If you are experiencing pain below your knee caps, you may be experiencing Patellar Tendonitis. This condition can prohibit you from performing your best, potentially have you on the sidelines, or worst, land you on the surgical bed if you don’t take proper actions when pain arises. Thankfully, here at NYSMI, our knee doctor in NYC is well trained and equipped to assess the issue and develop a customized treatment plan specifically for you. Learn more about Patellar Tendonitis below and how you can cope with it before your next appointment with us.
What is Patellar Tendonitis?
Patellar tendonitis is the overuse, inflammation, or injury of the patellar tendon, the tissue that connects the kneecaps to your shin bone. The tendon works with your muscles in your thighs by allowing you to extend your knee so you can kick, run, jump, and bend. Also known as “jumper’s knee” because it is commonly experienced by athletes who participate in physical activity or sports that require frequent jumping, such as basketball or volleyball. However, anyone can develop patellar tendonitis. Causes include:
- Repeated stress such as running and jumping for prolong periods.
- Tight leg muscles and hamstrings that can put pressure on the knees.
- Muscular imbalances.
- Chronic illnesses such as kidney failures, autoimmune diseases, or diabetes that can disrupt blood flow to the knees and weaken the tendon.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of patellar tendonitis is pain or swelling below the knee caps. Initially, you can experience pain at the beginning or end of your workout routine. Over-time, if pain worsens, it can interfere with physical activity and day to day movements such as walking, kneeling, rising from a chair, or climbing stairs. Other symptoms include:
- Pain and tenderness below or around the kneecaps.
- Weakness in the knees during physical activities.
- Pain when straightening or bending the legs.
- Pain when running and jumping.
Prevention
Taking precautionary steps is crucial before the problem persists. If you are seeking treatment, our knee doctor in NYC can evaluate the issue and take the appropriate course of action to solve the issue. In the meantime, by following these few tips, you can prevent Patellar Tendonitis from stopping you from playing your favorite sports. This condition affects the knees so it is important to always:
- Pay attention- if you are experiencing pain, don’t ignore it. Take a break and avoid any physical activity until the pain goes away.
- Workout the muscles- Perform exercise routines that involve lowering your leg slowly and extending your knees. Exercise routines include squats, leg press, and lunges.
- Perfect Your Technique- Before performing any routine or equipment you are unfamiliar with, consider getting professional help on how to properly execute them. Performing proper techniques can help you with good form and prevent injuries from happening.
- Stretch- Make sure to always stretch either before or after your workout. Stretching allows for better mobility in the knees and prevents injuries from occurring.
How to Cope with Patellar Tendonitis
If you are experiencing Patellar Tendonitis, it’s important to follow these tips before you come to your next appointment with us. Patellar Tendonitis can be treated with these at-home remedies and tips that you can do yourself:
- Rest the affected area.
- Apply the ice to the area.
- Our knee doctor in NYC may suggest wearing a knee brace for a few weeks.
- Take over the counter anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen.
- Stretch and perform gentle exercises to prevent stiffness in the knees.
It is important to allow the tendon to heal when you are experiencing pain. If the tears in the tendons continue to multiply, the issue can worsen and potentially require surgery.
What Can Our Knee Doctor in NYC Do for You?
Don’t let Patellar Tendonitis be a problem in your day to day life. If pain continues for more than a few weeks, it is time to book your appointment with us at NYSMI. Our highly-trained knee doctor in NYC knows the importance of a full recovery. Our team will evaluate the issue and develop a treatment plan that will get you back on your feet and back on the playing field. To learn more about how we can help you with Patellar Tendonitis, contact us today and start your road back to the competition.