What Is Patellar Tendinopathy? Mitcham & Aspendale Gardens, Victoria
Patellar tendinopathy—also known as jumper's knee—is a common overuse condition that causes pain below the kneecap (under the knee). It affects the patellar tendon, the connective tissue that links the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia). Common symptoms include:
- Pain and tenderness at the front of the knee;
- Swelling near the knee tendon;
- Discomfort during running, jumping, or stair climbing;
- Stiffness after periods of inactivity;
- Tenderness or aching under the patella.
If you experience knee pain under the kneecap, tendinitis of the knee, or a painful knee tendon, it's important to seek early intervention to prevent long-term dysfunction.
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Your Personalised Patellar Tendinopathy Treatment Plan
Every patient's journey is unique. That’s why we design a fully tailored patellar tendinopathy treatment program, which typically includes:
- Initial Consultation and Assessment: We start with a thorough history, movement screening, and strength testing. Imaging is recommended if needed.
- Pain Management and Load Control: Treatment includes isometric exercises, taping for jumper’s knee, and modified activity to ease strain, without full rest.
- Progressive Loading Phase: As symptoms improve, we introduce eccentric and heavy slow resistance training, targeting key muscles and correcting movement issues.
- Return to Sport / Work Phase: Rehab progresses to sport-specific drills, plyometrics, and movement reintegration to restore full function and performance.
- Injury Prevention & Maintenance: We provide long-term strength plans, re-testing, and load management to maintain gains and avoid reinjury.
Our physiotherapists guide you through each stage to ensure optimal recovery from patellar tendinopathy.
Who Is At Risk for Patellar Tendinopathy?
Understanding who is most susceptible can help with early detection and intervention. Individuals at increased risk include:
- Athletes in high-impact sports – basketball, volleyball, soccer, track and field;
- Recreational runners or those with rapid training increases;
- Manual labourers with repetitive knee loading;
- Individuals with biomechanical inefficiencies such as poor ankle mobility, hip instability, or poor jump-landing mechanics;
- People with a history of lower limb injuries or previous knee trauma.
Early treatment is essential if you identify with any of these risk profiles and are experiencing under-kneecap pain or patellar tendonitis symptoms.
Injuries We Treat
Knee Injuries
Shoulder Injury
Spine & Neck
Hip & Groin
Hamstring
Lower Leg
Ankle & Foot
Functional
Special Conditions
Veteran Team That Listens
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Symptom Management
We carefully assess and address your specific pain points and discomfort
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Pathology Understanding
We analyse your injury through detailed assessment and imaging when necessary
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Objective Progress Tracking
We measure your improvement week-by-week using advanced testing technology
Move Better, Live Stronger—Start Your Recovery Today
Patellar tendinopathy doesn’t have to hold you back. At Full Speed Performance, our expert team combines advanced tools and tailored care to help you recover stronger and prevent future injury. Book your consultation now and take the first step toward lasting relief and confident, pain-free movement.
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Our physiotherapy team has been trusted by
Our team at Full Speed Performance has supported everyone from elite athletes to everyday individuals, earning the trust of professional sports teams, orthopaedic specialists, and performance coaches. We deliver the same high-quality care to every client, whether you're aiming for peak performance or simply want to move pain-free.
FAQ
Patellar tendinopathy, often called jumper’s knee, is a chronic overuse injury affecting the tendon just below the kneecap. While “tendonitis” refers to short-term inflammation, “tendinopathy” reflects long-term tendon wear and degeneration, requiring more structured rehab.
Key symptoms include pain or tenderness below the kneecap, stiffness after rest, discomfort during jumping or climbing stairs, and swelling near the tendon.
Recovery time varies by severity. Mild cases may resolve in 6–12 weeks, while chronic tendon issues can take 3–6 months with consistent, progressive treatment.
Not at all. We guide you through safe activity modification, so you stay active while managing load and promoting healing. Total rest is rarely the answer.
Yes. Our evidence-based approach—including strength training, movement correction, and tendon loading—helps reduce pain, restore function, and prevent recurrence without relying on surgery or medication.

