OP | Patella tendon irritation

OP

Normally, a patellar tendon irritation can be treated conventionally, i.e. without surgical measures. However, in very rare cases, surgical intervention can be considered as a therapeutic measure. This is especially the case in chronic and very long-lasting patellar tendon irritation. Due to the persistent inflammation, the tendon degenerates and shortens.During an operation, the damaged parts of the tendon are cut out and the tendon can regenerate.

Psychotherapy

Physiotherapy can be prescribed as a supportive measure to treat patellar tendon irritation. Massage techniques are used to stimulate the blood circulation. In addition, mobilization takes place through targeted stretching exercises, which reduces the tension on the tendon and aims to restore normal movement. Further exercises serve to strengthen the muscles in the thigh and calf. As a rule, physiotherapy lasts one to two weeks, after which the acute inflammation should subside and the knee should be able to bear weight again slowly.

Duration

Normally, an acute irritation of the patella tendon heals on its own within a few weeks. The healing process can be accelerated by therapy and the entire disease then takes about two weeks. It is important that a grace period of at least two months is observed after healing to prevent possible relapses. In some cases, however, the irritation of the patellar tendon can become chronic and last for several years.

Sports Break

During an acute irritation of the patellar tendon, excessive stress on the knee joint must be avoided and activities that cause pain must never be performed. The tendon must be protected even after healing, otherwise it can quickly relapse. Athletes, especially runners, are often affected by irritation of the patella tendon.

Until the acute pain has disappeared, a sports break must be taken, as the patellar tendon is permanently strained when running. After that, training can be slowly resumed, but care should be taken to ensure that the training sessions are short and not too demanding. Runners should choose short, flat stretches, preferably without curves or inclines, for the first few runs after overcoming patellar tendon irritation.