The patellar tendon is important for using the knee and bending and straightening your leg. This tendon is a fibrous band that stretches from the top of the shin bone to connect at the patella, also called the kneecap. Running produces a repeated impact as the foot hits the ground, putting pressure on the knee joint. Overusing the knees through high-impact activities can cause injuries to the patellar tendon.
Patellar Tendonitis
Repetitive running may cause patellar tendonitis, an inflammation of the patellar tendon. This can produce swelling in the knee joint and pain while running. You may also have pain behind your kneecap. Patellar tendonitis may be managed in the early stages by applying ice packs to the affected knee. Severe forms may cause difficulty with running, requiring a break from activity until the condition resolves, according to University Sports Medicine at the University of Buffalo.
Patellofemoral Pain
Patellofemoral pain syndrome occurs due to overuse of the patellar tendon, as well as the joint where the kneecap meets the femur, the upper bone of the leg. Patellofemoral pain syndrome causes pain behind the kneecap, particularly with walking, running or climbing stairs. Physical therapy exercises, focused on those that work the quadriceps muscles, provide support for the kneecap and the patellar tendon while relieving pain and restoring activity, the American Family Physician website reports.
Significance
Some running activities actually cause the patellar tendon to tear. When this occurs, the kneecap may move out of place because the tendon is no longer able to hold it. The initial tear may occur as a sensation of the kneecap "popping" with use; followed by pain, swelling and bruising. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, treatment for this injury involves securing the knee joint with a brace to prevent further damage. This type of treatment is typically used for small, partial tears. A complete tear requires surgery to reconnect the tendon, the orthopaedic surgeons group reports.
Prevention
You can prevent an injury to the patellar tendon by monitoring how much you run and caring for your body during exercise. Regular running requires shoes that provide support, and solid footwear is important for bearing some of the impact to your lower extremities while running. Stretch for at least five to 10 minutes before running and follow with a period of cooling down. This might involve walking followed by stretching. For mild pain, apply an ice pack for 20 to 30 minutes daily or using over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication to relieve some symptoms, University Sports Medicine recommends.
Considerations
If you develop an injury to the patellar tendon, follow your doctor's directions to avoid causing further damage. Returning to your running or exercise routine too soon can cause pain and damage that may be difficult to repair. Work with your doctor to determine how well you can bend your knee and the mobility of your kneecap. When you are able to stretch and exercise without pain and your knee range of motion is restored, your doctor may consider letting you return to your sport.
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