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© 2012-2024 Isokinetic Medical Group Srl
P.Iva 03740671205 – Cap. Soc. Int. Vers. Euro 10.400 – Reg. Imp. n.03696800378 – R.E.A. n.309376

Tendinopathy is an umbrella term implemented in medicine to describe a complex multifaceted pathology of the tendon, typically characterized by pain, decreased functioning and reduced load capacity of the structure. This condition is characterised by a series of physiological changes that occur within the tendon and that can lead to significantly different symptom presentation among subjects based on several factors, such as the stage of the condition (usually categorised in a continuum model presenting 3 different stages), the patient physical status, the performed sport, etc. When considering the anterior compartment of the knee, the quadriceps tendon (a structure that connects the quadriceps to the patella) and patellar tendon (that connects the patella to the tibia) tendinopathies are the most frequent. Although both structures belong to the extensors’ mechanism of the knee (quadriceps – quadriceps tendon – patella – patella tendon – tibia) their anatomical structures, injury aetiology and presented symptoms can differ. These types of conditions typically arise due to an excessive cumulative load to which the lower limb has been exposed over days, weeks and months preceding the onset of the symptoms. Jumper’s knee is a commonly implemented term to refer to these conditions due to the causes of them being typically related to high-intensity repetitive activities commonly present in jumping sports (basketball, volleyball, etc.). Patients affected by these conditions typically complain of pain during functional activities (e.g.: going down the stairs, squatting, etc.) in a “dose-dependent” fashion, meaning that more load or faster rates of loading, typically leads to higher sensitivities.
Non-surgical management is the most implemented rehabilitation approach with most of the cases resolving in this way. In some cases, where conservative treatment has not yielded satisfactory results, or when the condition is in advanced stages with severe symptoms, surgical management may be considered. Our strong recommendation regarding tendinopathy is to not delay seeking medical attention as the condition tends to degenerate over time and a prompt diagnosis coupled with early non-surgical management is vital for successful rehabilitation outcomes. Different strategies to temporarily “deload” to then “re-load” the tendon can be implemented throughout the rehabilitation process with the final goal of enhancing the tendon’s resilience and ability to withstand higher stresses. In the literature, an array of interventions including the use of pharmacologic intervention, injections and exercise medicine (e.g.: overcoming and yielding isometrics, eccentric training, restoring muscular imbalances, etc.) have been recommended, however, it is important for the plan to be successful to be directed and supervised by competent staff. In Isokinetic, after being assessed by one of our specialised doctors, you will be prescribed a rehabilitation plan tailored to your specific condition. Together with the rehabilitation team you will gradually resolve your symptoms and gradually reload the tendon to increase its tolerance. After having optimised your mobility, and restored your muscle strength and muscular balance, you will progress in our movement analysis and retraining room to enhance your movement quality. Finally, you will complete your rehabilitation with our on-field rehabilitation service where you will be able to completely restore your loading tolerance and return to your practised sport, optimising your performance and minimising the risk of relapse.
© 2012-2024 Isokinetic Medical Group Srl
P.Iva 03740671205 – Cap. Soc. Int. Vers. Euro 10.400 – Reg. Imp. n.03696800378 – R.E.A. n.309376