Patellar Tendonitis

Question 1

Name some extrinsic factors that contribute to PT:

Answer 1

Inappropriate footwear
Hard surfaces
Advancing training schedule forward too quickly

Question 2

Name some intrinsic factors that contribute to PT:

Answer 2

Age
Leg length  
Joint laxity
Malalignment of the foot, ankle, and leg 
Tracking abnormalities of the patella 
Tibial torsion

Question 3

How does the Q-Angle contribute to this condition?

Answer 3

An increased Q-angle or femoral anteversion are two common types of malalignment

Angles more than 15 degrees create more of a pull on the tendon, creating painful inflammation

Question 4

What is Patellar Tendonitis?

Answer 4

Inflammation of the patellar tendon where it attaches to the patella and may progress by tearing or degenerating

Question 5

What type of injury is PT?

Answer 5

It is an overuse injury from repetitive overloading of the extensor mechanism of the knee.

Question 6

Describe the stages of the injury

Answer 6

Stage 1 – Pain only after activity, without functional impairment
Stage 2 – Pain during and after activity, although the patient is still able to perform satisfactorily in his or her sport
Stage 3 – Prolonged pain during and after activity, with increasing difficulty in performing at a satisfactory level
Stage 4 – Complete tendon tear requiring surgical repair

Question 7

What are some clinical presentations of PT?

Answer 7

Pain felt just below the patella when they try to kneel or move the knee
- Swelling in and around the patellar tendon

Question 8

Management of PT:

Answer 8

Decrease inflammation
Gradual activity increase
Stretching thigh and calf muscles
Strengthening Quads