Patellar Tendinitis in Singapore: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• What is Patellar Tendinitis?
• Causes of Patellar Tendinitis
• Symptoms of Patellar Tendinitis
• Diagnosis
• Treatment Options
• Preventing Patellar Tendinitis
• Conclusion
• FAQ

Introduction

Often referred to as “jumper’s knee” patellar tendinitis is a frequent ailment among sports and physically active people. This illness is common in Singapore, where badminton, basketball, and volleyball are prominent sports. The origins, signs, and available treatments for patellar tendinitis in Singapore are examined in this article.

What is Patellar Tendinitis?

An overuse injury called patellar tendinitis affects the tendon that joins the tibia (the bone in the shinbone) and the patella (the kneecap). The mechanics of running, jumping, and other high-impact exercises depend heavily on this tendon. When a tendon is repeatedly strained and stressed, it can cause pain, inflammation, and, if ignored, tendon degeneration.

Causes of Patellar Tendinitis

1. Overuse and Repetitive Stress: Engaging in sports or activities that involve frequent jumping or running can place excessive stress on the patellar tendon.
2. Improper Technique: Incorrect form during physical activities can contribute to the development of patellar tendinitis.
3. Sudden Increase in Activity Level: Increase in exercise Level Abruptly: Increasing the time or intensity of physical exercise suddenly might overwork a tendon and cause damage.
4. Muscle Imbalances: Excessive strain on the patellar tendon may result from weakness or tightness in the muscles that surround the knee, such as the hamstrings or quadriceps.
5. Poor Training Surfaces: Training on hard surfaces or uneven terrain can exacerbate the stress on the knee joint and tendon.

Symptoms of Patellar Tendinitis

The hallmark symptom of patellar tendinitis is pain localized at the base of the kneecap. This pain typically worsens with physical activity and may be accompanied by:

• Swelling around the knee
• Tenderness to touch
• Stiffness after periods of inactivity
• Pain when jumping, running, or climbing stairs

Diagnosis

Diagnosing patellar tendinitis involves a thorough physical examination by a healthcare professional. In Singapore, this may include visiting a sports medicine specialist or an orthopedic surgeon. The diagnosis process typically includes:

• Medical History: Discussing symptoms, activity levels, and any recent changes in physical activity.
• Physical Examination: Assessing the knee for signs of tenderness, swelling, and range of motion.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays or MRI scans may be used to rule out other conditions and to assess the extent of tendon damage.

Treatment Options

In Singapore, conservative methods combined with surgery is frequently the best way to treat severe cases of patellar tendonitis. Typical therapeutic modalities consist of:

1. Rest and Activity Modification: In order to facilitate tendon healing, it is imperative to minimise or abstain from activities that worsen the pain.
2. Physical Therapy: A customised physical therapy regimen can assist increase flexibility, strengthen the knee’s surrounding muscles, and address any biomechanical problems.
3. Medications: Over-the-counter drugs like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be used to treat pain and inflammation.
4. Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT): This non-invasive procedure employs shockwaves to promote healing in the tendon.
5. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP injections, which involve using the patient’s blood to promote healing, are becoming increasingly popular in Singapore.
6. Bracing and Support: Using knee braces or patellar straps can provide support and alleviate strain on the tendon during activities.
7. Surgical Intervention: To repair the injured tendon, surgery may be required in situations where conservative treatments are unsuccessful.

Preventing Patellar Tendinitis

Preventive measures are crucial for avoiding patellar tendinitis. Athletes and active individuals in Singapore can reduce their risk by:

• Slowly ramping up the intensity and length of physical activities
• Adding strength and flexibility exercises to training routines
• Using correct technique during sports and workouts
• Choosing suitable footwear for specific activities
• Steering clear of hard or uneven training surfaces

Conclusion

Patellar tendinitis is a common problem among Singaporeans who are athletes or physically active. The disorder can be effectively managed by identifying the underlying reasons, recognising the symptoms, and adhering to the proper treatment regimens. Taking preventive measures allows people to be active while minimising their chance of harm. If you feel you have patellar tendonitis, you should consult a healthcare specialist for a clear diagnosis and treatment plan.

Patellar Tendinitis FAQ

Make an Appointment