Whether you're an athlete or someone who enjoys an active lifestyle, knee pain can be both frustrating and limiting. If you're experiencing discomfort just below your kneecap—especially after jumping, running, or climbing stairs—you might be dealing with a condition known as Jumper’s Knee, medically referred to as patellar tendinopathy.
At Dr. Rami Hamed Center (DRHC) in Dubai, we understand how this type of injury can impact your mobility, your confidence, and even your daily routine. In this blog, we’ll walk you through what Jumper’s Knee is, how to recognize it, what causes it, and how it’s diagnosed—so you can make informed decisions about your health and recovery.
Jumper’s Knee is an overuse injury that affects the patellar tendon—the strong band of tissue connecting your kneecap (patella) to your shinbone (tibia). This tendon helps you straighten your knee during movements like kicking, jumping, and running.
When the patellar tendon becomes inflamed or damaged due to repetitive stress, it leads to pain and tenderness in the front of the knee, especially just below the kneecap.
While common in athletes who play sports that involve a lot of jumping (such as basketball, volleyball, or track), Jumper’s Knee can affect anyone who engages in repetitive knee-loading activities, including gym-goers, runners, and even individuals with physically demanding jobs.
If you’re experiencing Jumper’s Knee, you may notice:
Important to know:
Symptoms often develop gradually and may be mild at first. Many people continue their regular activities, thinking the discomfort will go away. However, without treatment, the pain can become persistent and interfere with daily life.
Jumper’s Knee is caused by repeated strain on the patellar tendon, which leads to tiny tears and inflammation over time. Several factors can contribute to this condition:
At DRHC Dubai, diagnosis starts with a detailed discussion of your symptoms, activity history, and physical examination. In many cases, the diagnosis is clinical—based on where the pain occurs and how it behaves during movement.
We may also use imaging for a clearer picture:
Early diagnosis is key. Left untreated, Jumper’s Knee can progress from mild inflammation to more serious tendon degeneration, which may take longer to heal.
While not life-threatening, Jumper’s Knee can become chronic and debilitating if not addressed early. It’s important to seek care before the tendon becomes severely damaged.
In most cases, no. Surgery is typically reserved for severe, long-standing cases that haven't improved with conservative treatment. At DRHC, we prioritize non-surgical options first.
Treatment plans vary depending on severity, but may include:
Recovery time depends on how early treatment begins and how severe the injury is. Mild cases may improve within 4–6 weeks with proper care, while more advanced cases may take several months. Adhering to rehab is crucial for full recovery.
Yes—with modifications. Low-impact activities like swimming or cycling may be safe alternatives during healing. Your physiotherapist at DRHC will guide you through a safe and structured exercise plan.
If you’ve been dealing with persistent knee pain—especially after activity—it’s best not to ignore it. Early intervention can make all the difference in preventing long-term tendon damage.
At Dr. Rami Hamed Center in Dubai, our expert orthopedic and sports medicine team specializes in diagnosing and treating Jumper’s Knee using advanced, evidence-based approaches. Whether you’re a competitive athlete or simply want to stay active without pain, we’re here to support your journey back to full mobility.
Our orthopedic specialists are available to evaluate your symptoms, answer your concerns, and develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your goals. Let us help you get back to doing what you love—stronger, safer, and pain-free.
Dr. Rami Hamed
Consultant Spine & Orthopedic Surgeon
Founder, DRHC – Dubai Healthcare City
📞 +971 4 279 8800
🌐 www.drhc.ae
📍 Dubai Healthcare City, Building 52