Patellar Tendonitis Treatment
Patellar tendonitis, also known as jumper's knee, is a condition characterized by pain, tenderness, redness and swelling in the region just below the knee where the patellar tendon is located. This tendon connects the knee to the shin bone and is highly instrumental in activities such as jumping. Thus this knee injury often occurs among those whose sports involve jumping—hence the name jumpers’ knee.
Tendonitis Knee Treatment
Often, patellar tendonitis can be treated simply by following the steps of the acronym RICE, or rest, ice, compression, and elevation, along with the use of an anti-inflammatory pain reliever medication. But sometimes this is not enough or taking time off is not possible.
When this is the case, a patella strap or knee tendonitis brace may help ease pain and facilitate rehabilitation of the patellar tendon.
How to Treat Patellar Tendonitis with a Patella Tendon Strap
In most cases, knee tendon pain treatment can be addressed with a simple, low-profile patella strap. This type of knee strap for patella tendonitis treatment encircles the top of the calf just below the knee. A patella tendonitis strap’s simple design means it is not restrictive of motion, which has made the patella strap popular among professional athletes as well as the average Joe. In fact, the patellar strap has been in use since the early 1800s. Some also use the patella strap for running injuries.
The patella tendon strap should fit comfortably along the interior of the knee joint; the patella support strap works by distributing pressure away from the patellar tendon by reducing its cross-sectional area, which helps ease knee pain. The knee band also provides patella support and improves patella tendon tracking and knee joint alignment.
One of the most popular knee bands for treating patella tendonitis is the Knee-O-Band Adjustable Knee Strap. It has a solid, tubular neoprene pad that tacks down the patella tendon and it is also comfortable against the skin. The patella tendonitis brace also comes at a highly affordable price. The Kid’s Knee Band is a similar strap for treating tendon injuries in children.
Those looking for the best patella strap at an affordable price should also consider the knee strap. This particular patella tendon strap features breathable, machine-washable material. And the Velcro closure of the D-ring strap ensures a comfortable fit and, along with its pad insert, provides well-distributed pressure.
Patellar Tendonitis Brace
Looking for the best knee brace for patellar tendonitis? Check out the knee tendonitis treatment option which provides the added support of a brace without all the bulk. The patellar tendon bearing brace is just 6” wide and it is lightweight and easy to apply. The sweat-resistant material and cool fit of this brace for patellar tendon pain treatment make it popular among athletes.
Unfortunately, a complete tear of the patellar tendon is a disabling injury. In such cases torn patella tendon treatment typically involves surgery. After surgery, treatment will likely include therapy and use of post-surgery patella support.
One of the most popular orthotics BraceAbility offers for a host of injuries is the Incredibrace knee sleeve. The unique charcoal, geranium and bamboo blend this brace is made of increases blood and oxygen flow to the knee. This reduces inflammation, enhances proprioception (sensory awareness), improves mobility and promotes healing, all of which are beneficial for knee injuries.
These are just a few of the many high-quality knee braces for patellar tendonitis. Considering the wide range of options, one should have no trouble finding a knee tendon treatment that works for him or her.
Don’t Forget the Quads!
Though wearing a patella tendonitis strap or brace can help in treating patellar tendonitis, one should always pair use of a patella support with physical therapy to improve the strength and flexibility of the quadriceps muscles (the four-part muscles at the front of the thigh involved in leg extension). Doing so can help prevent one from reinjuring his or her patellar tendon.
A doctor might also recommend other treatment options such as a platelet-rich plasma injection or even surgery. Learn more about alternative treatment options for patellar tendonitis in our resource library.