KNEES / PATELLAR TENDONITIS

Description Patellar Tendonitis, also called Jumper's Knee, involves the patellar tendon that connects the kneecap (patella) to the shin bone (tibia). When the thigh muscles contract, the knee extends (straightens) by way of the patellar tendon. Frequent or repetitive activities like jumping, kneeling, squatting, bicycling, and climbing can lead to overuse and inflammation of the tendon. Common symptoms include experiencing pain below the kneecap in the front of the knee, particularly when moving the leg. The pain may become magnified when kneeling or squatting. Conservative Treatment Conservative treatment for patellar tendonitis includes rest, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and avoiding the aggravating physical activities contributing to overuse of the tendon. Conventional Surgery Surgery is rarely indicated. Conventional surgical approaches may involve removal of fluid from an inflamed bursa to lessen both the pressure and pain in the front of the knee, or the making of an incision and debridement of the damaged tissue.

Extracorporeal Shockwave Treatment
Extracorporeal Shock Wave Treatment (ESWT)is a safe and effective, non-invasive (no incisions) alternative that eliminates many of the risks associated with conventional surgery. ESWT is indicated for patients who have experienced chronic pain for an extended period of time and have not responded to conservative treatment. ESWT delivers high-energy sound waves, or acoustical energy, to the affected area to create a micro trauma that promotes revascularization and triggers the body’s natural repair mechanisms. Although used effectively worldwide for many years, the FDA has not yet approved high-energy ESWT for treatment of Patellar Tendonitis in the United States.

Benefits of ESWT include non-invasive treatment, a high success rate, single treatment protocol, and fast recovery with quick return to work and normal activities. Studies have shown very high success rates in eliminating or significantly reducing pain. Talk to your doctor about your specific medical condition to see if ESWT is right for you.

DOCTOR FINDER - Click here to find medical professionals in California trained in ESWT.