How is patellar tendinitis treated?

Patellar tendinitis generally refers to inflammation of the knee joint synovium or surrounding soft tissues and is commonly seen in athletes, the elderly, and individuals with knee injuries. In terms of treatment, the initial step is to establish a clear diagnosis and exclude other possible conditions such as meniscus injury or ligament damage. Non-surgical treatments should be tried first for patellar tendinitis, and surgical treatment should be considered only if these measures prove ineffective. Below are common treatment methods:

1. Rest and ice application: Adequate rest and reduced knee joint activity are necessary to avoid secondary injuries. Each ice application should last 15–20 minutes and be performed multiple times daily.

2. Elastic bandage compression: Wrapping the leg with an elastic bandage can reduce stress on the tibia and alleviate pain symptoms associated with patellar tendinitis.

3. Medication: Oral administration of ibuprofen capsules can relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Anti-inflammatory analgesic plasters can also be applied externally.

4. Physical therapy: Modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and heat application can help improve blood circulation and accelerate recovery.

5. Surgical treatment: Patients with moderate patellar tendinitis may benefit from arthroscopic minimally invasive surgery to alleviate symptoms. Patients with severe patellar tendinitis may consider total joint replacement surgery to relieve symptoms.

If treatment for patellar tendinitis proves ineffective or significantly affects quality of life, a follow-up evaluation at a qualified hospital is recommended.