Patella tendon pain help.

[M.C]

Aghhhhhh.

Yet another niggle...because I've entered an event that's on in 10 days time .

I went out for a run the other day and within a couple of minutes I had an aching pain in the tendon below my right kneecap whenever my right foot struck the floor and had to cut the run short.

Any advice other than resting it? Cheers.

[GeoffB]

Could be tight quads - a good sports massage might sort it out.

[Eddie]

Try one of these, they seem to be gaining popularity, supposed to keep the knee cap tracking true especially when descending. I've met several folks who swear by them and my early trials seem encouraging.

Mueller Jumpers Knee Strap.

You'll find a photo etc. on http://www.wiggle.co.uk under 'run' and 'injury'

[M.C]

The pain has started getting worse. There's now a more constant ache...

The knee strap could help. I've had kneecap tracking problems in the past and wear Spenco orthotic insoles in all of my shoes to correct the lack of arches in my very flat feet -I've had no kneecap trouble for the past 7 years (just problems everywhere else!)

Does the Mueller strap appear to provide noticeable relief when attached?

With instep supports, a mueller ankle brace and a jumpers' knee strap I'm going to feel like Robocop when I go out for a run!

Cheers.

[M.C]

I've invested in the Mueller kneestrap and it does seem to give some relief, although I've not tried running.

Is the jumper's knee problem likely to be a long term problem?

I'm now not sure if Running is actually worth it, I seem to suffer injuries of some sort fortnightly....

[Calf]

had mine since May this year.......

not as bad as it was just nigglingy pain now but dosen't seem to be getting any better thou no worse either!

Full tour on sat should put paid to therest of the season

[Skarsnik]

familiar problem over the years, from my footy days.
Ice is good, as are cold baths/showers on sore area after runs. Longish drives after runs or walks don't help.
This has always stayed with me but I keep it under control through weights once or twice a week (medium weights, 3 sets of ten hamstring curls), and the odd cycle can also help. Keep the leg muscles strong and it should keep in check, and be sensible. Watch your footwear - turned ankles seem to bring it on for me....

[davidphys]

if it really is chronic you should find a sports medicine gp/specialist who is prepared to pepper the tendon with hydrocortisone

[M.C]

I can't afford to be going to physios and doctors every fortnight. I'm still getting pain. I reckon that distance & hill running is just too harsh for my poor biomechanics...

[M.C]

MC try this.Take 75mg of soluble Aspirin in warm water 30mins before running.Then place cold packs on both knees prior to the session.Then train.Do this before every session.When your knees get better stop the treatment.

Cheers for the advice. I'm thinking of trying a short run at the weekend, although I can still feel a slight sensation from the right patella tendon.

Additionally check that your not over weight, and that the midsole cushioning on your running shoes is soft.Aspirin can make your stomach bleed, although the soluble form reduces this risk.

Well, I'm 12st 10 (but fairly lean) and ~6', so quite heavy for a runner.

I use Saucony Omni 6 and Mizuno Wave Harriers, which are both quite comfortable. I may try the aspirin.