Patellar Tendinopathy, commonly known as Jumper’s Knee, is an overuse injury that affects the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia). It commonly develops due to repetitive jumping, running, squatting, or activities that place repeated stress on the knee, making it particularly common in athletes involved in basketball, volleyball, football, and athletics. Individuals typically experience pain just below the kneecap, which may worsen during exercise, climbing stairs, squatting, kneeling, or after prolonged physical activity. As the condition progresses, the pain may persist even during everyday activities and reduce overall knee function. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential to promote tendon healing and prevent chronic symptoms.
Physiotherapy plays a vital role in managing patellar tendinopathy by reducing pain, improving tendon capacity, strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, hip, and core muscles, correcting movement patterns, and gradually increasing tendon loading through progressive rehabilitation. Treatment may include manual therapy, stretching, eccentric and strengthening exercises, activity modification, and sport-specific rehabilitation. A personalised rehabilitation programme helps restore strength, improve flexibility, reduce the risk of recurrence, and enable patients to return safely to work, sports, and everyday activities with greater comfort, stability, and confidence.