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Injury Hub · Patellar Tendon

Patellar Tendonitis (Jumper's Knee) in Runners

Patellar tendinopathy — 'jumper's knee' — is degeneration of the patellar tendon just below the kneecap. Common in jumpers and sprinters; in distance runners it usually shows up after spikes in hill work or speed.

The Patellar Tendon cluster

Everything Stridely has on patellar tendon — symptoms, causes, recovery, prevention, and runner-specific guides.

SymptomsCausesRecovery TimelinePreventionExercisesvs Other ConditionsRunning With ItShoe Guidance

Quick Symptoms Check

  • Pain on the tendon just below the kneecap
  • Stiffness in the morning
  • Pain that warms up at first but worsens with jumping or sprinting
  • Tenderness pressing on the tendon
Full symptoms guide →

Most Common Causes

  • Sudden increase in jumping, sprinting, or hill work
  • Quad weakness — tendon takes load the muscle should absorb
  • Reduced ankle dorsiflexion (tight calves)
  • Inadequate landing mechanics in jumping sports
Full causes breakdown →

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By Athlete Type

Patellar Tendon looks different for a high school runner than a masters marathoner. Pick yours.

Patellar Tendon in Sprinters→Patellar Tendon in Distance Runners→Patellar Tendon in Middle Distance Runners→Patellar Tendon in Jumpers→Patellar Tendon in High School Athletes→Patellar Tendon in College Runners→Patellar Tendon in Masters Runners→Patellar Tendon in Recreational Runners→

Related Injuries

Runner's Knee (Patellofemoral Pain)→IT Band Syndrome→
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