Knee
Patellar Tendinopathy (Jumper's Knee)
Quick answer
Patellar tendinopathy causes localised pain just below the kneecap during jumping, landing and heavy knee loading. It is managed with progressive quadriceps and tendon loading and training-load planning, with shockwave therapy considered as an adjunct in selected persistent cases.
Common symptoms
- Pinpoint pain below the kneecap
- Pain warming up then returning after sport
- Discomfort on stairs and deep squats
- Stiffness after sitting
Potential causes and contributing factors
- Rapid increases in jumping or sprinting volume
- Limited quadriceps strength capacity
- Sudden return to court or field sport
Who commonly experiences it
Basketball, volleyball, badminton and football players, and gym-goers increasing jump or squat volume.
How it is assessed at Back2Health
- Single-leg decline squat testing
- Quadriceps strength measures
- Jump and landing tolerance
- Training-load review
Where shockwave may fit
It may be considered where tendon pain persists despite a structured heavy slow loading programme.
Where it may not fit
Pain from the kneecap joint, fat pad or growth plates in adolescents needs to be distinguished before treatment.
Rehabilitation and alternative treatment
Whether or not shockwave is used, the rehabilitation plan does the long-term work. Alternatives and adjuncts may include physiotherapy alone, manual therapy where indicated, load management, footwear or equipment changes, and referral for imaging or a medical opinion.
- Isometric quadriceps loading
- Heavy slow resistance training
- Energy-storage and plyometric progression
- Return-to-jumping plan
When medical referral may be needed
Knee pain in adolescents may involve growth-plate structures and needs age-appropriate assessment.
Seek urgent care for major trauma, sudden inability to bear weight, suspected fracture, severe swelling or redness, fever, unexplained weight loss, progressive weakness, or loss of bladder or bowel control.
Patellar Tendinopathy (Jumper's Knee) — questions patients ask
No — jumping is usually reintroduced progressively once the tendon tolerates strength work.
Medical disclaimer. Information on this website is provided for general education and does not replace an individual clinical diagnosis or medical advice. Shockwave therapy is not suitable for every person or every condition. A qualified clinician must assess suitability.
Written by the Back2Health physiotherapy and rehabilitation team · Clinically reviewed by the Back2Health clinical team · Last reviewed 3 August 2026
Find out whether shockwave is right for your condition
Start with a clinical assessment. The Back2Health team will evaluate the source of your symptoms, explain whether shockwave is appropriate and build a rehabilitation plan around your goals.