Etiology of Patellar Tendinopathy in Athletes

Abstract

Objective: To review the etiology of patellar tendinopathy as it relates to clinical management of chronic patellar-tendon disease in athletes. Data Sources: Information was gathered from a MEDLINE search of literature in English using the key words patellar tendinitis, patellar tendonitis, patellar tendinosis, patellar tendinopathy, and jumper’s knee . Study Selection: All relevant peer-reviewed literature in English was reviewed. Data Synthesis: The etiology of patellar tendinopathy is multifactorial, incorporating both intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Age, muscle flexibility, training program, and knee-joint dynamics have all been associated with patellar tendinopathy. The roles of gender, body morphology, and patellar mobility in patellar tendinopathy are unclear. Conclusions: The pathoetiology of patellar tendinopathy is a complex process that results from both an inflammatory response and degenerative changes. There is a tremendous need for research to improve our understanding of the pathoetiology of patellar tendinopathy and its clinical management.