Knee Care

Wisconsin Bone & Joint knee care experts offer comprehensive
services to individuals with a wide range of knee pain issues.

Patella Tendonitis

Knee Specialists At Wisconsin Bone & Joint

The physicians at Wisconsin Bone & Joint utilize cutting-edge technology to assess, diagnose and work with patients to develop innovative treatment plans for a variety of knee conditions and injuries. Our team of physicians are committed to providing you with the best treatment options to alleviate your knee pain.

Providing trusted Orthopedic care in the community for over 40+ years

At Wisconsin Bone and Joint, we pride ourselves with providing you highly personalized and comprehensive orthopedic care. Our philosophy of direct physician-to-patient care means your physician will be an intrical part of every stage of your care. This commitment to a dedicated continuum-of-care model has made us one of the most trusted and respected practices in Southeast Wisconsin and greater Milwaukee area.

Patella Tendinitis

What Is Patella Tendinitis?

Patellar tendonitis, also called jumper’s knee, is pain in the front of the knee along the band of tissue (the patellar tendon) that connects the kneecap (patella) to the shin bone (tibia).

What Causes Patella Tendinitis?

The most common activity causing patellar tendonitis is too much jumping. Other repeated activities, such as running, walking, or bicycling may also lead to patellar tendonitis.

All of these activities put repeated stress on the patellar tendon, causing it to become inflamed.

Patellar tendonitis can also happen to people who have problems with the way their hips, legs, knees, or feet are aligned.

This alignment problem can result from having wide hips, being knock-kneed, or having feet with arches that collapse when you walk or run, a condition called overpronation.

What Are The Symptoms of Patella Tendinitis?

  • Pain and tenderness around the patellar tendon
  • Swelling in your knee joint, or swelling where the patellar tendon attaches to the shin bone
  • Pain with jumping, running or walking, especially downhill or downstairs
  • Pain with bending or straightening the leg
  • Tenderness behind the kneecap

What Are The Treatment Options For Patella Tendinitis?

In the early stages you should apply ice packs for 20 to 30 minutes every 3 to 4 hours for 2 to 3 days, or until the pain goes away.

Your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication.

He or she may also prescribe a band to wear across the patellar tendon, (called an infra-patellar strap) or a special knee brace. The strap or brace will support your patellar tendon, preventing it from becoming overused or painful.

If you have a problem with overpronation of your foot, your doctor may prescribe custom-made arch supports called orthotics.

You will also be given rehabilitation exercises to help you return to your sport or activity.

Also, while you are recovering, you will need to change your sport or activity to one which will not make your condition worse.

Our team is here for you

When conservative care and treatment is appropriate, we offer the best, least invasive, least aggressive treatment options to relieve your pain and discomfort. When an injury is more serious and conservative care is not an option, our orthopedic surgeons provide the latest in innovative surgical interventions available with the goal of getting you back to the life you love. Wisconsin Bone & Joint physicians offer orthopedic services at three convenient locations in Mayfair, Glendale and Cedarburg.