Patellar Tendinopathy: A Physiotherapist’s Perspective

The pathology of patellar tendinopathy and the mechanisms of pain are poorly understood. The most popular treatment modality is the Eccentric overload Exercise. However, there is insufficient evidence to recommend a specific protocol and yet it is the most commonly used treatment modality. The aim of this case study is to present the possible mechanisms of pain and a treatment approach on a patient who was diagnosed as having patellar tendinopathy. It is suggested that hyper extension of the knee might be the source of patellar tendon pain in this patient. Following a course of pulsed short wave diathermy the patient was symptom free and remained so at 6 month review. Further studies to evaluate effectiveness of pulsed short wave diathermy is suggested.