Jumper's Knee (Patellar Tendinopathy)

Jumper's Knee (Patellar Tendinopathy): Treatment in Palm Beach

Patellar tendinopathy, commonly called jumper's knee, is a degenerative condition of the patellar tendon that connects the kneecap to the tibia. It is particularly common in basketball players, volleyball players, and athletes involved in jumping and sprinting, but also affects recreational athletes and active adults.

Image-guided orthobiologic injection is well-supported by evidence for patellar tendinopathy and is a core treatment offering at Palm Beach Regenerative. Contact us today to determine if this is the right treatment for you.

What Is Jumper's Knee (Patellar Tendinopathy)?

Jumper's knee involves degeneration and micro-tearing of the patellar tendon, typically at its insertion on the lower pole of the patella. Contrary to what the name suggests, this is not primarily an inflammatory condition but a degenerative one involving collagen disorganization within the tendon, which is why anti-inflammatory treatments alone provide limited benefit.

Signs and Symptoms

• Pain at the lower pole of the kneecap (patellar tendon insertion)
• Pain worsening with jumping, squatting, kneeling, or stair climbing
• Localized tenderness at the inferior patellar pole
• Morning stiffness and pain that may warm up with activity initially, then worsen again
• Tendon thickening in chronic cases

Common Causes and Risk Factors

• Repetitive jumping and loading of the extensor mechanism
• Sudden increases in training volume
• Hard training surfaces
• Quadriceps and hip flexor tightness
• Reduced ankle dorsiflexion altering landing mechanics

How It Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis is clinical and confirmed by ultrasound, which shows tendon thickening, collagen disorganization, and neovascularity within the degenerative area. MRI provides additional detail in complex cases.

Conventional Treatment Options

• Load management and activity modification
• Progressive tendon loading program (eccentric and heavy slow resistance)
• Shock wave therapy
• Steroid injection: Provides short-term relief but may weaken tendon with repeated use
• Surgical tendon debridement in refractory cases

The Palm Beach Regenerative Approach

Dr. Ghattas uses real-time ultrasound guidance to deliver Regenexx SCP platelet preparations precisely to the area of tendon degeneration at the inferior patellar pole. This targeted biological stimulus supports the tendon's healing response and promotes healthy collagen remodeling.

The precise, image-guided delivery is critical: peri-tendinous injection (missing the tendon) produces inferior outcomes. Every PBR injection is confirmed within the tendon tissue under direct ultrasound visualization.

The BioMod Advantage: MLS Robotic Laser Therapy applied to the patellar tendon accelerates cellular recovery within the degenerative tendon tissue and reduces the local inflammatory response. Xymogen collagen support and anti-inflammatory protocols provide the nutritional building blocks and systemic anti-inflammatory environment needed for patellar tendon healing.

Like all medical procedures, orthobiologic treatments have potential risks and benefits. Results vary by individual. Not all patients are candidates. Dr. Ghattas will discuss your specific situation, realistic expectations, and all treatment options, including when surgery or other interventions may be more appropriate.