Current Management Approaches for Patellar Tendinopathy in Athletes

Patellar tendinopathy (PT) is a painful musculoskeletal condition that particularly affects athletes participating in jumping sports. Symptoms of PTare difficult to manage, affect sports and physical activity participation. The recovery rate of PT is not satisfactory, with long recovery times and ahigh recurrence rate. Thus, it is important to manage rehabilitation programs to improve athletes’ compromised sports participation. The

Aim: ofthis review is to combine and present available evidence to guide clinicians in key elements of clinical diagnosis, examination and managementof PT in athletes. Loading is the most important part of rehabilitation, especially for energy storing tendons like PT. Function is the primary focusof rehabilitation, before pain or structural recovery. Exercise is the primary treatment strategy with the highest evidence level for PT as it is theonly way to load the tendon in line with its function. Other modalities such as extracorporeal shockwave therapy, sports taping and dry needlingmay be beneficial as adjunct therapies, but evidence is limited. Athletes with PT play their sports twice as much as those with other knee problems,yet they are less satisfied with their recovery. Loading management with appropriate exercises is the best approach with a strong level of evidencefor treating PT in athletes to improve athletes’ compromised sports participation.