Patellar tendinopathy is a load-related problem of the patellar tendon, often near the lower tip of the kneecap. It particularly occurs with jumping and running. Treatment focuses on an appropriate progression of loading rather than short-term pain relief alone.
Prompt examination is needed after a sudden injury with inability to actively straighten the knee or marked swelling.
Causes and risk factors
Rapid increases in jumping, sprinting or strength training may exceed the tendon's ability to adapt. Recovery and overall load management matter too. Not all pain at the front of the knee originates in the patellar tendon.
Typical symptoms
Local pain below the kneecap during jumping, climbing stairs or forceful knee extension is typical. Initially symptoms often occur after exercise, later during it too. A sudden tearing injury with inability to actively straighten the knee is a different, urgent situation.
Diagnosis
We assess the pain location, tendon loading tolerance, knee movement and muscle strength. Imaging may help if the diagnosis is unclear or the course unusual. Tendon changes on ultrasound or MRI are always interpreted alongside symptoms and function.
Non-surgical treatment
A graded strengthening programme and adjustment of jumping and running are central. Complete long-term rest does not reliably improve loading capacity. Additional treatments are used only after individual consideration; definite success is not promised.
Surgical options
Surgery is only rarely considered after consistent conservative treatment of sufficient duration and renewed diagnostic assessment. Appropriate specialist onward care is decided individually. Not every chronic tendon change needs an operation.
Aftercare and rehabilitation
Return to jumping and competition is gradual. The load on the training day and symptoms the next day help guide progression. Strength and landing control are assessed before full clearance. Recovery often requires patience over several months.
Common questions
Should I just stretch?
Stretching alone does not replace targeted strengthening and gradual loading.
Can I keep training?
Adjusted training is often possible. Volume and intensity depend on the findings and the tendon’s response.
Will a week off cure it?
A short break may settle symptoms but does not automatically restore loading capacity.
Arrange a consultation
We discuss which treatment is suitable for your findings and which procedures are available within our outpatient service during a personal consultation. Outpatient operations take place at an external surgical centre.
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Further reading
Selected external resources about this condition. Some linked publications are in German.
Medical background
Sources & further information
These professional and patient resources provide further information about this condition. The text on this page is independently written.
AAOS: Soft-tissue injuries