Reader Question:

I play volleyball, so will physical therapy help the patellar tendonitis in my knee?

Patellar tendonitis is the condition that arises when the tendon and the tissues that surround it become inflamed and irritated. It is a knee injury related to jumping-type sports, such as basketball and volleyball, but is also seen in running and soccer players. A combination of factors leads to patellar tendonitis, including increasing intensity and frequency of physical activity, tight leg muscles, muscular imbalance and weak leg muscles. Pain is usually sharp directly over the patellar tendon when you are active, and will persist as a dull ache at rest. Initial treatment includes rest, performing exercises in a pain free range, and ice after activities that cause pain. Your doctor may prescribe physical therapy, which can help you adjust body mechanics to distribute the forces exerted through the knee during physical activity. They can also help to stretch tight muscles, especially the quadriceps, and strengthen the patellar tendon and surrounding muscles to limit further injury. A therapist might also administer a patellar tendon strap to help distribute force away from the tendon as you return to regular activities.

Vince Frisillo, MPT
Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine
Excel Therapy Specialists