Jumpers knee can be classified into 1 of 4 stages, as follows:Stage 1 – Pain only after activity, without functional impairment
Stage 2 – Pain during and after activity, although the person is still able to perform satisfactorily in his or her sport
Stage 3 – Prolonged pain during and after activity, with increasing difficulty in performing at a satisfactory level
Stage 4 – Complete tendon tear requiring surgical repair
It begins as inflammation in the patellar tendon where it attaches to the patella and may progress by tearing or degenerating the tendon. People present with an ache over the patella tendon. Most people are between 10 and 16 years old. Magnetic resonance imaging can reveal edema (increased T2 signal intensity) in the proximal aspect of the patellar tendon. Causes
It is an overuse injury from repetitive overloading of the extensor mechanism of the knee. The microtears exceed the bodys healing mechanism unless the activity is stopped.Among the risk factors for patellar tendonitis are low ankle dorsiflexion, weak gluteal muscles, and muscle tightness, particularly in the calves, quadriceps muscle, and hamstrings.It may be associated with stiff ankle movement and ankle sprains. Diagnosis
Diagnosis is generally based on symptoms and a physical examination. Ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging may help clarify how severe the problem is. Treatment
Evidence for treatment is poor. In the early stages rest, ice, compression, and elevation may be tried. Tentative evidence supports exercises involving eccentric muscle contractions of the quadriceps on a decline board. Specific exercises and stretches to strengthen the muscles and tendons may be recommended, e.g.
cycling or swimming. Use of a strap for jumpers knee and suspension inlays for shoes may also reduce the problems. Corticosteroid injections and NSAIDs are generally recommended. Procedures
Dry needling, sclerosing injections, platelet-rich plasma, extracorporeal shock wave treatment, and heat therapy have been tried. Surgery
Surgery may be tried if other measures fail. This may involve removal of myxoid degeneration in the tendon. This is reserved for people with severe pain for 6–12 months despite conservative measures. Novel treatment modalities targeting the abnormal blood vessel growth which occurs in the condition are currently being investigated. Knee operations in most cases have no better effects than exercise programs. Epidemiology
It is relatively common with about 14% of athletes currently affected. Males are more commonly affected than females. References


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