Patellar tendinitis, commonly known as "jumper’s knee," is an overuse injury that affects the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone. This condition is especially common among athletes who engage in repetitive jumping, running, or high-impact activities. If left untreated, patellar tendinitis can progress, leading to more severe knee pain and limitations in mobility.
Signs, Symptoms, and Contributing Factors
Patellar tendinitis often develops gradually, beginning with mild discomfort that worsens over time. Common symptoms include:
Pain and tenderness just below the kneecap, especially during movement.
Stiffness or aching in the knee after physical activity.
Swelling or inflammation in the tendon area.
Weakness in the knee that makes jumping, running, or climbing stairs difficult.
Key factors contributing to patellar tendinitis include:
Overuse and repetitive stress from high-impact activities.
Muscle imbalances or weakness in the quadriceps or hamstrings.
Tight leg muscles that increase strain on the patellar tendon.
Improper biomechanics or posture that create added pressure on the knee.
Inadequate recovery after intense physical activity.
Assessing Patellar Tendinitis: Diagnosis and Evaluation
A proper diagnosis involves:
Physical Examination: Checking for pain, swelling, and movement limitations.
Palpation Tests: Applying pressure to the patellar tendon to assess tenderness.
Imaging Tests: Ultrasound or MRI to evaluate tendon inflammation or microtears.
East Asian Medicine's Perspective on Patellar Tendinitis
In East Asian Medicine, patellar tendinitis is often seen as a result of qi and blood stagnation in the knee, leading to inflammation and discomfort. Weakness in the spleen and kidney systems may also contribute to tendon vulnerability. Treatment focuses on restoring energy flow, improving circulation, and supporting tendon recovery.
Mi Rae Acupuncture’s Comprehensive Treatment for Patellar Tendinitis
At Mi Rae Acupuncture, we provide natural and effective treatments to reduce knee pain and promote healing. Our approach includes:
Acupuncture for Pain Reduction
Enhances circulation to reduce inflammation and promote tendon repair.
Stimulates the body’s natural pain-relief mechanisms.
Moxibustion to Support Healing
Applies gentle heat to improve blood flow and reduce stiffness.
Supports deeper tissue repair and alleviates discomfort.
Cupping Therapy for Muscle Tension
Helps release tightness in the quadriceps and surrounding muscles.
Reduces strain on the patellar tendon by improving circulation.
Cold Laser Therapy for Tissue Regeneration
Uses painless low-level laser light to stimulate healing at a cellular level.
Reduces pain and inflammation while promoting faster tendon recovery.
Each treatment plan is customized to your specific needs, ensuring the best approach for long-term relief and recovery.
Practical Steps to Protect Your Knees
To support your healing process, consider these simple but effective self-care strategies:
Engage in gentle stretching to keep the knee flexible and reduce strain.
Use cold or heat therapy appropriately: Apply cold therapy after activity to reduce swelling and inflammation, and use heat therapy to promote circulation and accelerate healing.
Modify physical activity to avoid repetitive stress on the tendon.
Choose proper footwear that provides adequate support during movement.
Find Lasting Knee Relief at Mi Rae Acupuncture
Dealing with knee pain can disrupt daily life, but you don’t have to manage it alone. At Mi Rae Acupuncture, we offer targeted and natural solutions to help you regain comfort and mobility. Our comprehensive approach blends acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping, and hands-on therapies to address both symptoms and underlying causes.
Take charge of your knee health today—schedule an appointment and begin your journey toward pain-free movement!