In this episode of the Rehab Science Podcast, Dr. Tom Walters discusses patellar tendinopathy, also known as jumper's knee, one of the most common causes of pain just below the kneecap in active adults.
Using a real patient case, Dr. Walters explains why patellar tendinopathy often develops after returning to sports like basketball or volleyball following a long break from explosive exercise. You'll learn how tendons adapt to load, why a sudden increase in jumping or running can exceed a tendon's current capacity, and why complete rest is rarely the best long-term solution.
The episode also covers the anatomy and biomechanics of the patellar tendon, common symptoms, evidence-based rehabilitation principles, and how progressive strengthening can help you safely return to the activities you enjoy.
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🎥 YouTube: Watch my patellar tendinopathy exercise progression featuring goblet squats, forward lunges, step-downs, and hopping progressions.
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