Knee tendinitis, or patellar tendinitis, is a painful condition that involves the tendon that connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia). According to Medline Plus, high levels of physical activity or an increase from baseline activity can result in knee tendinitis. Symptoms include pain, swelling and tenderness in the area below the kneecap and along the upper area of the shinbone. Fortunately, this condition can usually be treated conservatively.
Rest
The most important treatment for knee tendinitis is rest. Reducing activities will allow the inflammation in the patellar tendon to ease, thus, reducing your symptoms. According to the Mayo Clinic, however, rest does not mean giving up all physical activity. You should limit the amount of running and jumping in your workout regimen. You may continue resistance training, as long as you avoid exercises that involve bending the knee. Once your symptoms improve, you can gradually return to running and jumping.
Ice
Applying ice for 20 to 30 minutes three to four times per day can be effective in treating knee tendinitis. Ice will help reduce some of the swelling that is causing your symptoms. Be sure not to apply ice directly to your skin, as it may result in frostbite.
Patellar Tendon Strap
According to the Mayo Clinic, a patellar tendon strap might help ease or prevent knee tendinitis. This strap works by transmitting force away from the patellar tendon to the strap. This redistribution of force can relieve the symptoms of knee tendinitis and may help prevent a recurrence of symptoms.
Corticosteroid Injection
The Mayo Clinic states that a corticosteroid injection can help alleviate the symptoms of knee arthritis. In this procedure, your physician will inject a corticosteroid mixed with a numbing medication into the tissue that surrounds the patellar tendon. The numbing medication will provide immediate relief if injected into the correct area that is causing you pain. This will wear off over the next few hours after the injection with the corticosteroid medication taking affect within the first few days. Results of this injection will vary. Some may not experience any relief, while others will notice relief for a year or more. Follow your doctor's instructions to make sure you will experience maximum relief from this procedure.
Surgery
Surgery may be necessary if your symptoms do not resolve within 12 months, according to the Mayo Clinic. Your surgeon will decide which approach is best to repair any damaged tendon or bone in the area of your knee.
