Jumper's Knee

How Is Jumper's Knee Diagnosed?

To diagnose jumper's knee, health care providers:

• ask about symptoms
• do a physical exam
• order imaging tests such as an X-ray or MRI, if needed

How Is Jumper's Knee Treated?

Treatment for jumper's knee includes:

• rest and taking a break from sports
• ice
• taping or wearing a knee support or strap just under the patella
• sitting with the leg raised
• ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, or store brand) to help with pain and swelling
• massage therapy
• strengthening and stretching muscles through physical therapy or an at-home exercise program

If someone with jumper's knee does not rest the knee, the tendon can become more damaged. Although it is not common, surgery may be needed if:

• the pain does not go away
• the patellar tendon is more damaged than is typical with jumper's knee

What Else Should I Know?

It will probably take a few weeks to months for your child to recover from jumper's knee.

To help your child heal as quickly as possible, follow your health care provider's instructions about:

• which activities to avoid
• which activities are OK (for example, swimming may be fine while your child is healing)
• strengthening exercises
• making and keeping all follow-up doctor visits

After recovery, your child should always stretch before and after sports, and avoid overtraining. This can help prevent jumper's knee and other sports injuries too.