Patella tendonitis, inflammation of the tendon which attaches to the knee cap, is a common condition that is referred to as "jumper's knee." It is called jumper's knee because it is a condition frequently encountered in basketball and volleyball players where there is tenderness at the bottom of the patella as the tendon inserts on the leg bone, tibia. While treatments with RICE (rest, ice, compression and elevation) along with the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs might suffice for treating this condition, the concomitant use of patella tendon straps might assist with the resolution of the inflammation in area.
Knee straps, also called patella tendon straps, are a frequently used treatment modality for patella tendonitis. The knee straps aim to improve the tracking of the patella tendon while helping to maintain alignment of the knee joint. While they have been in use since the early 19th century, many studies continue to aim to prove that these are a useful adjunct to individuals with anterior knee pain. Many physicians believe that it can be predetermined which patients will benefit most from patella tendon straps. They use a "thumb test" in which external pressure is applied different aspects of the knee joint to determine which patients might respond most favorably to the knee strap.
What to Look for
When looking for a knee strap, look for one that fits comfortably along the inferior portion of the knee joint. Knee straps are available at drug stores, value markets, online stores and surgical supply stores. There are a number of designs available, and consumers must decide which knee strap would be most comfortable. Do not assume because one individual found a particular knee strap to be comfortable, that you will find that same knee strap to be as comfortable.
Common Pitfalls
The use of a knee strap will not substitute for the proper rehabilitation of the quadriceps muscles, the large group of four muscles in the front of the thigh. It is important to rehabilitate these muscles while healing from patella tendinitis. In addition, knee straps are not as effective in the young, highly active population. You must modify your activity level to decrease the strain on the patella tendon which includes but is not limited to avoiding jumps, stairs and squats, and continuing knee range of motion activities in the form of using an elliptical machine, swimming or cycling.
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