Patellar Tendonitis
Patellar tendonitis can be complex. We help you find relief.
Patellar tendonitis, sometimes called “jumper’s knee,” is inflammation and irritation of the tendon connecting your kneecap to your shinbone. It’s a common overuse injury. But when the pain sticks around, there can be more to the story.
Override specializes in chronic pain. Our virtual care team looks at the physical, neurological, and emotional factors that can influence ongoing pain, then builds a personalized care plan around your needs, goals, and life.
of appointments are fully virtual. In-network with most insurance plans in select states.
of patients report improvement*
satisfaction with Override providers*
*Source: Internal Override Health patient-reported outcomes data
What Causes Patellar Tendonitis?
Patellar tendonitis develops from repetitive stress on the tendon below the kneecap, common in activities involving jumping, running, or quick direction changes. Over time, small amounts of tendon irritation can build into a persistent, nagging pain.
Common symptoms:
Pain just below the kneecap
Pain that worsens with jumping, running, or climbing stairs
Tenderness directly over the tendon
Stiffness, especially after periods of rest
Chronic pain from patellar tendonitis is also a nervous system story. When tendon pain continues for months, the nervous system can become more sensitized, which can keep discomfort present even as the tendon itself improves.
When Patellar Tendonitis Becomes More Than a Knee Problem
When tendon pain lasts for months, it can start affecting much more than jumping or running.
Pain can change how you exercise, whether you can keep playing a sport you love, and how confident you feel pushing yourself physically.
That’s why Override doesn’t treat patellar tendonitis as only an overuse injury.
We look at the whole pain experience and build a personalized plan around your symptoms, history, goals, and the factors that may be contributing to your pain.
A Whole-Person Approach to Patellar Tendonitis
You may have already tried rest, ice, or modifying your training. Maybe something helped for a while. Maybe nothing did.
Override isn’t about asking one more treatment to solve every part of a complex pain experience.
It’s about bringing the right care together.
Depending on your needs, your personalized care plan may include:
Pain Medicine
Pain specialists trained in pain neuroscience and non-opioid chronic pain management who can oversee your care plan and adjust medications when appropriate.
Physical Therapy
Movement specialists trained in chronic pain who guide progressive tendon loading exercises, the evidence-based cornerstone of tendon rehab.
Pain Psychology
Pain-focused therapists who help address the frustration that can come with a slow-healing tendon injury, especially for athletes.
Coaching & Peer Support
Certified pain coaches help you pace your return to activity and stay supported between visits.
Your care is personalized to you. You may not need every service. The difference is that your providers can work together as one team, with one shared understanding of your pain and your goals.
Real Results
“Override has been a game-changer in my journey with chronic pain. It’s not just about relief; it’s about unlocking my life, revitalizing relationships, and retraining my physical function. I’m getting outside more often, have a little more pep in my step, and for the first time in a LONG, LONG time, I feel hopeful.”
Raymond K., Override patient
How Is Patellar Tendonitis Treated?
Most cases respond well to a structured, progressive loading program.
Treatment can include physical therapy and activity modification. Rest alone often isn’t enough since tendons typically need progressive, guided loading to heal well.
We’ve created a complete guide to knee pain treatment options, including how different approaches work and when they may be considered.
When Should You Consider Override for Patellar Tendonitis?
Override may be a good fit if:
Your symptoms have lasted more than a few weeks, or keep recurring
Your pain is limiting your training, work, or the activities you want to do
You’ve tried rest without lasting relief
You’re looking for a more comprehensive approach to managing persistent tendon pain
Override isn’t emergency or acute injury care. If you have a sudden, severe injury with inability to bear weight, seek appropriate in-person medical care.
Related Conditions
Frequently Asked Questions
Complete rest often isn’t the most effective approach. Tendons generally respond better to progressive, guided loading than to total inactivity.
Recovery timelines vary by severity and how consistently a loading program is followed. Some cases improve within weeks, while more established cases can take longer.
Some modified training is often possible, but activities that significantly aggravate the tendon may need to be adjusted temporarily while you work through a treatment plan.
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