Patellar Tendinitis (Jumper's Knee)

• Ultrasound or MRI report showing tendon thickening, any partial tear, and the exact location of the changes.
• Knee X-rays, usually requested to exclude other causes of front-of-knee pain.
• A summary of your training load, recent changes to it, and when pain occurs (during activity, after, or at rest).
• Records of treatment already tried, especially how long a structured strengthening programme lasted and how closely it was followed.
• Details of any injections, including type and date, since some are linked to tendon weakening.

1. Is the problem in the tendon itself, or could another structure be causing my pain?
2. What progressive loading programme do you recommend, and how will I know it is working?
3. Should I rest, modify training or keep playing at a reduced level?
4. What are the real benefits and risks of injections or shockwave therapy for my case?
5. If surgery is ever needed, what does it involve and how long is the rehabilitation?
6. How can I reduce the chance of the pain returning?

Most people improve with a long, progressive tendon-loading programme, though recovery often takes three to six months and sometimes longer. Pain can linger or return if training load rises too quickly. A small proportion who fail good rehabilitation consider other options, including surgery, with variable results. Outlook depends on how long symptoms have lasted, the sport and level of play, body weight, and how consistently the exercise programme is followed.