This is an overuse condition which results in inflammation of the patella tendon as it attaches into the tibia (shin bone). It is found in children who play a lot of sport involving running, jumping and sprinting. It usually presents between the ages of 10 and 15, a child will complain of pain below the level of the knee just above the top of the shin bone. There may be a noticeable lump on the top of the tibia at the site of injury and a child will complain of the knee being sore during sport or physical activities which load the knee joint.

The condition is usually self-limiting and resolves overtime with modified participation or rest from sport and corrective exercises. It should not go untreated as in some cases although rare it can lead to an avulsion fracture where the tibial tuberosity (top of the shin bone) becomes detached from the tibia. Our Chartered Physiotherapist will assess the injury and identify any underlying biomechanical causes for why it has occurred. Based on the examination a period of rest or modification of sports participation will be recommended and the physiotherapist may use any of the following treatment methods to address factors contributing to the pain: progressive stretching and strengthening exercises, orthotics and laser.