Jumpers Knee in Volleyball Players: A Guide to Patellar Tendinopathy

Jumping is a fundamental part of volleyball, but it can also lead to a common injury known as jumper’s knee, or patellar tendinopathy. This condition affects many athletes, particularly high school volleyball players and middle school volleyball players in Oak Park, River Forest, and Forest Park, who rely on explosive jumping and landing during practices and games.

What is Jumper’s Knee?

Jumper’s knee is an overuse injury of the patellar tendon, the tissue that connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia). This tendon plays a critical role in absorbing forces during jumping and landing. Repeated strain can lead to microtears and inflammation, resulting in pain and dysfunction.

Symptoms of Jumper’s Knee

Athletes with jumper’s knee often experience:

• Pain in the front of the knee, just below the kneecap.

• Pain that worsens during or after activities involving jumping or squatting.

• Stiffness in the knee, especially after periods of rest.

• Tenderness when the patellar tendon is palpated.

• Difficulty performing activities such as climbing stairs or landing from a jump.

For volleyball players, symptoms often flare up after multiple matches or intense training sessions.

How is Jumper’s Knee Diagnosed?

Testing for jumper’s knee involves both physical examination and functional movement assessments:

1. Palpation: Pressing on the patellar tendon reveals tenderness in the affected area.

2. 6-Inch Step Down Test: This test evaluates pain and control during single-leg movements. Athletes with jumper’s knee may exhibit discomfort or instability when stepping down from a 6-inch platform.

Early diagnosis is essential to prevent the condition from worsening, especially in young athletes striving for long-term success in sports.

Treatment for Jumper’s Knee

Addressing jumper’s knee requires a combination of techniques to reduce pain, improve strength, and restore functional movement. Common treatments include:

1. Gluteal Strengthening

• Weak glutes can lead to poor shock absorption during landing, placing excess strain on the patellar tendon.

• Exercises like the 7 month oblique sitting postion, the gluteal wall press and monster walks improve glute activation and control.

2. Quadriceps and IT Band Foam Rolling

• Foam rolling reduces tension in the quadriceps and iliotibial (IT) band, both of which can contribute to excessive knee stress.

• Regular rolling before and after activity promotes flexibility by manipulating the connective tissue/ fasicia and blood flow to the area.

3. Improving Quad-to-Glute Strength Ratio

• Many athletes have overactive quadriceps and underactive glutes. Balancing the strength between these muscles is key to proper jumping mechanics.

• Single-leg exercises like lateral step-ups and Bulgarian split squats target both the quads and glutes.

4. Progressive Tendon Loading

• Controlled exercises, such as eccentric squats (lowering slowly during a squat), help the tendon adapt to stress and rebuild strength.

5. Activity Modification

• Rest or reduced activity levels allow the tendon to recover.

• Athletes may need to limit jumping drills temporarily and focus on strength and mobility work.

6. Local Care Options

At River Forest Health and Wellness, we offer specialized care to help athletes in Oak Park, River Forest, and Forest Park recover from jumper’s knee. Our treatments include soft tissue therapy, dynamic neuromuscular stabilization for movement efficiency, and tailored strength programs to prevent reinjury.

Preventing Jumper’s Knee

Prevention is always better than cure. Encourage young athletes to:

• Warm up and stretch properly before games and practice.

• Focus on balanced leg strength to reduce overuse of the patellar tendon.

• Gradually increase training intensity to avoid overloading the tendon.

• Incorporate recovery tools like foam rolling and stretching after workouts.

Stay Active and Pain-Free

If you or your athlete is experiencing knee pain while jumping, don’t wait until the symptoms worsen. Early intervention can make a significant difference in recovery time and performance.

At River Forest Health and Wellness, we understand the unique challenges faced by young volleyball athletes and are dedicated to helping them get back on the court stronger and healthier. Contact us today to learn more about our services and start your journey to pain-free play.