Etiology of Patellar Tendinopathy in Athletes
in Journal of Sport RehabilitationClick name to view affiliation
Objective:
To review the etiology of patellar tendinopathy as it relates to clinical management of chronic patellar-tendon disease in athletes.
Data Sources:
Information was gathered from a MEDLINE search of literature in English using the key words patellar tendinitis, patellar tendonitis, patellar tendinosis, patellar tendinopathy, and jumper’s knee.
Study Selection:
All relevant peer-reviewed literature in English was reviewed.
Data Synthesis:
The etiology of patellar tendinopathy is multifactorial, incorporating both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Age, muscle flexibility, training program, and knee-joint dynamics have all been associated with patellar tendinopathy. The roles of gender, body morphology, and patellar mobility in patellar tendinopathy are unclear.
Conclusions:
The pathoetiology of patellar tendinopathy is a complex process that results from both an inflammatory response and degenerative changes. There is a tremendous need for research to improve our understanding of the pathoetiology of patellar tendinopathy and its clinical management.
The author is with the Division of Athletic Training, Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA 22601.
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