What are the treatment options for patellar tendinitis?
Short answer
Treatment for patellar tendinitis usually combines temporary activity changes, progressive tendon loading, physiotherapy and strength rehabilitation; shockwave therapy or PRP injection may be considered when symptoms persist.
This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.
At a glance
- Common location
- Pain is usually felt at the tendon between the kneecap and shinbone
- Rehabilitation focus
- Gradual loading helps the tendon tolerate jumping and running
- Activity advice
- Reduce painful high-impact work while maintaining suitable movement
What the condition involves
Patellar tendinitis, also called patellar tendinopathy, affects the tendon linking the kneecap to the shinbone. Repeated jumping, running or forceful knee extension can overload it. Treatment is guided by pain, strength, sport demands and whether another knee problem is contributing.
Treatment and next steps
Start by reducing the activity that clearly provokes pain, without complete rest unless advised. Physiotherapy can introduce controlled isometric, slow strengthening and sport-specific loading. Strength Training Rehabilitation develops the thigh, hip and calf capacity needed for repeated knee work. Shockwave therapy or PRP injection may be discussed as adjuncts, not replacements for a structured loading plan.
When to seek care
Arrange prompt assessment for a sudden snap, a visible gap below the kneecap, inability to straighten the knee, marked swelling, or inability to bear weight. These features can suggest a tendon tear rather than an overuse problem. Seek review if pain is worsening despite reducing the provoking activity.
Questions for your doctor
Ask which exercises match your current irritability, how pain should guide loading, and when jumping can resume. Discuss whether imaging is useful and what makes shockwave therapy or PRP injection reasonable in your situation.
Find care
General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi
That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.
27 Ar Ruwwad St - Shakhbout City - MSH4 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, MetLife +20 more
Al Ruwais, Al Dhafrah
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +16 more
Al Bahyah - Al Bahyah Old - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, Allianz Care +18 more
Abu Dhabi
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +27 more
Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.
A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.
Questions people ask
Will I need surgery?
Start by reducing the activity that clearly provokes pain, without complete rest unless advised. Physiotherapy can introduce controlled isometric, slow strengthening and sport-specific loading. Strength Training Rehabilitation develops the thigh, hip and calf capacity needed for repeated knee work. Shockwave therapy or PRP injection may be discussed as adjuncts, not replacements for a structured loading plan. The decision depends on examination findings, function and the demands you want to return to.
How is the treatment plan chosen?
An orthopaedic or physiotherapy assessment considers the injury pattern, symptoms, knee stability, strength and everyday goals before setting a gradual plan.
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Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.