Patella Tendinopathy Flashcards
What is patellar tendinopathy commonly known as?
Jumper’s knee.
Where is pain localised in patellar tendinopathy?
At the patellar tendon, particularly near the inferior pole of the patella.
What type of injury is patellar tendinopathy?
An overuse injury.
What is a common cause of patellar tendinopathy?
Repetitive overload of the patellar tendon.
How does muscle weakness contribute to patellar tendinopathy?
Weak supporting muscles like the quadriceps increase strain on the tendon.
What is often combined with overload to cause patellar tendinopathy?
Muscle weakness or imbalance.
What activities commonly aggravate patellar tendinopathy?
Jumping, landing, running, or stair climbing.
What incidental activity can also trigger patellar tendinopathy?
Moving heavy loads, such as during house-moving.
How does patellar tendinopathy present during a subjective assessment?
Pain during and after activity, worsening with repeated sessions.
Why is patellar tendinopathy difficult to treat?
Progress is often slow and inconsistent.
What is a key anatomical change in patellar tendinopathy?
Collagen disorganisation within the tendon.
What is a common finding during palpation in patellar tendinopathy?
Pain at the patellar tendon or its attachment to the patella.
What strength test is important for patellar tendinopathy assessment?
Quadriceps strength testing..
What functional test can reproduce pain in patellar tendinopathy?
Decline squats on a 20° board.
What movement test can identify pain related to landing activities?
Hop testing.
What subjective history should you gather for diagnosis?
Details of increased activity levels, pain triggers, and functional impact.
What type of overtraining is a common trigger?
A sudden increase in training intensity or volume.
Which sports are particularly associated with patellar tendinopathy?
Basketball, volleyball, and athletics involving jumping or landing.
What biomechanical factors can predispose to patellar tendinopathy?
Poor lower limb alignment and tight quadriceps or hamstrings.
What is the goal of progressive loading in treatment?
To adapt and strengthen the tendon without overloading it.
What key activity modifications are recommended for patients?
Reducing high-impact activities like jumping or heavy stair use temporarily.
How to explain to patient why they got patella tendinopathy
It happens when the tendon is overloaded—either from doing too much activity too quickly or from weakness in the muscles that support your knee. Over time, this can lead to small changes in the tendon that cause pain, especially when you’re active.
General Notes for the First Session?
Avoid any exercises that increase pain above 3/10 on a pain scale.
Focus on slow, controlled movements.
Use isometric holds to manage pain and build tolerance.
Ensure proper technique and avoid compensatory movements.
