Pain in front of the knee is quite common in young adults—females in particular.
Although studies demonstrate that athletes and young women are more susceptible to experiencing anterior knee pain (pain in front of the knee), it can happen to anyone—at any time. When pain above the knee occurs, many potential conditions could contribute to pain, such as:
- Patellar tendonitis
- Quadriceps tendonitis
- Arthritis of the patella
- Quadriceps muscle strain
- And more
Although any of these conditions could cause knee pain, patellar tendinitis is one of the most common. In this blog, we’ll focus on patellar tendinitis, exploring its common causes and symptoms, as well as general treatment options for knee pain. The only way to get a proper diagnosis is to schedule an appointment with a doctor.
No matter the cause of top of knee pain, EmergeOrtho-Triangle Region Hip & Knee specialists work together to find a personalized treatment to help you Emerge Stronger. Healthier. Better.
Top of Knee Pain Causes
Also referred to as “jumper’s knee,” the most common causes of patellar tendinitis are a result of overuse from physical activity. Those at risk of knee pain are individuals who:
- Routinely jog, squat, climb stairs, and perform similar activities that repeatedly place stress on the knees
- Abruptly increase the longevity or frequency of an activity, like starting a new sport
- Improperly used sports equipment or techniques during exercise (including wearing the wrong shoes or gear)
When an individual experiences patellar tendinitis, the following symptoms may occur:
- Pain and tenderness around the patellar tendon
- Stiffness
- Swelling
- Pain when jumping, running, or walking
- Knee pain when bending or straightening your leg
- Tenderness and pain behind the kneecap
Can Other Orthopedic Conditions Cause Kneecap Pain?
Several other orthopedic conditions and injuries can lead to pain above the knee cap. Examples of additional orthopedic conditions and injuries that produce pain include:
- Chondromalacia Patella
When the cartilage beneath the kneecap softens and degenerates
- Patellofemoral arthritis
Overuse can cause arthritis to settle into the joint between the kneecap and thigh bone, causing pain in the front of the knee.
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome
This is when general anterior knee pain occurs (often from one of the causes listed).
- Quadriceps Tendinitis
Quadriceps tendinitis results from overuse and repetitive stress on the quadriceps tendon.
How To Treat Knee Pain in the Front of the Knee
Early intervention of knee injuries and conditions can help alleviate pain and prevent more problematic issues from developing. Most scenarios involving pain on top of the kneecap successfully heal with conservative treatment methods.
Depending on your diagnosis, your EmergeOrtho physician may prescribe one or more of the following nonsurgical treatment methods to address kneecap pain:
- RICE Method
Rest, ice, compression, and elevation can help reduce pain and inflammation in the knee.
- Medication
Your orthopedic physician may suggest taking anti-inflammatory, nonsteroidal drugs (NSAIDs) to alleviate pain and discomfort.
- Physical Therapy
Certain exercises and stretches can help aid in reducing pain while also strengthening and improving range of motion in the muscles in the front of the kneecap and above the knee (such as your quadriceps and hip muscles). Strengthening exercises and stretches can also be used as preventative pain strategies.
- Orthotics
Specialized shoe inserts, called “orthotics,” can help stabilize and align the foot and ankle, which in turn relieves stress placed on the knee and lower leg.
- Cortisone Injections
Cortisone injections can be injected near the site of pain and inflammation in the knee to help improve symptoms.
- PRP Therapy
As a form of regenerative medicine, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy utilizes the body’s growth factors (extracted from the blood) to help reduce pain by being reinjected back into the source of pain and inflammation.
If conservative treatment methods have not addressed top of knee pain, your orthopedic surgeon may consider surgical intervention. Our hip and knee specialists are skilled and practiced in several surgical approaches ranging from knee arthroscopy to partial or full knee replacements.
If knee pain keeps you from the lifestyle and activities you enjoy, schedule an appointment now. Or, call us anytime at 919-220-5255.
