Jumper's knee occurs in volleyball, soccer

Long

Q: My son was recently diagnosed with jumper's knee. Could you explain what this is and the treatment options available?

A: Haley Santos, a physical therapist for St. Dominic Hospital said, "Jumper's knee, also known as patellar tendonitis, usually occurs in athletes who play a sport in which sudden direction changes and jumping movements are common such as soccer or volleyball. The tendon below the kneecap becomes inflamed with repeated strains, and tiny tears then develop causing pain. Rest, stretching, ice therapy, straps or braces, and very rarely surgery are treatment methods. Taking time off from sport and/or some types of exercise usually help tremendously."

Q: What is Osgood-Schlatter disease?

A: Osgood-Schlatter disease causes swelling, soreness and pain just below the kneecap at what's called the tibial tuberosity. It most often happens to active young people between the ages of 9 and 16 and frequently to those undergoing a growth spurt. It was once found to occur mainly in boys but now many females get Osgood-Schlatter disease as well. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) have been used for treatment as well as the classic RICE which stand for rest, ice, compression and elevation. Dr. Wayne Johnson of Richland Primary Care Clinic said, "It may take weeks to months for knee pain to resolve. The main thing to remember is it will get better. The young athlete may not want to decrease activities. But, this must be stressed by parents and coaches."