Patellar Tendinopathy (Jumper's Knee)

Patellar tendinopathy causes pain at the front of the knee, especially during jumping or running. Physiotherapy and regenerative treatments help reduce pain and promote tendon healing.

Understanding Patellar Tendinopathy

Patellar Tendinopathy, often called ‘jumper’s knee,’ is characterised by pain at the front of the knee that makes activities such as running, jumping, or transitioning from sitting to standing difficult. It typically develops due to muscle imbalances, restricted joint mobility, or weakness in surrounding muscles.

Causes

Muscle imbalances in the leg
Limited joint mobility in the knee or hip
Muscle weakness in the knee, hip, foot, ankle, or back

Symptoms

Pain in the front of the knee
Warmth or mild swelling
Limited knee mobility and tenderness
Dull ache or sharp pain during activity
Pain or difficulty bending and straightening the knee

Treatment

Treatment includes improving joint mobility, correcting movement patterns, restoring muscle balance, manual therapy, and tailored exercise programs. Recovery is typically achieved within 3–4 weeks for most patients.

Specialist & Regenerative Medicine Options

For patellar tendinopathy that persists beyond 3 months (chronic tendinopathy) or where significant tendon degeneration is present on imaging, our Prestidge sports physicians can offer targeted treatments that support tendon healing.

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy — Injected under ultrasound guidance into the area of tendon degeneration, PRP delivers growth factors that may support collagen production and tendon repair.
High-Volume Injection (HVI) — A large-volume injection delivered around the patellar tendon to address abnormal tissue changes. Often considered alongside PRP.
Peptide Therapy — Where clinically appropriate, prescribed peptides may assist tissue repair and support recovery from chronic tendinopathy as part of a broader treatment plan. A valid prescription following individual medical assessment is required.

Dry Needling under Ultrasound — Image-guided needling of degenerative tendon tissue to stimulate a healing response.
Prolotherapy — Injection into the patellar tendon-bone interface to support tendon attachment and reduce chronic pain.
Corticosteroid Injections — Used selectively, as repeated steroid injections around tendons carry risk, but may assist short-term pain management in specific presentations.

Our sports and exercise physicians at Prestidge work alongside your treating clinician to determine which option best suits your condition, goals, and stage of injury. Image-guided procedures are performed with precision and care. Visit prestidge.com.au to learn more about our full range of specialist services.

Important: All specialist consultations, prescription treatments, and injectable procedures are subject to individual clinical assessment by a registered medical practitioner. Suitability, potential benefits, and risks will be discussed during your consultation. No treatment outcomes are guaranteed. Prescription medicines — including testosterone and peptide therapies — are only available following appropriate medical review and a valid prescription in accordance with TGA and AHPRA requirements.

Prevention Tips

Maintain balanced strength and flexibility in the knee, hip, and core muscles. Wear supportive footwear that promotes proper alignment. Gradually progress training loads and include rest days.

(02) 9948 1767