Patellar Tendonitis is term used to describe an overuse syndrome that affects the anterior (front) part of the knee. It is classified as a pain in the patellar tendon, a band of tissue that connects the quadriceps muscle to the lower leg via the kneecap. Although activities like running, walking, or bicycling may lead to patellar tendonitis, it is most often seen in activities that require explosive movement. The repetitive loading and unloading of the patellar tendon complex causes repeated mechanical stress. Although some suggest that this stress causes it to become inflamed, others argue that Patellar Tendonitis is more of a degenerative condition. Although anyone can develop Patellar Tendonitis, people who have excessive foot motions (flat feet, high arches, over-pronation) are more likely to experience this malady. Custom Foot Orthotics can diminish the Patellar Tendonitis symptoms by distributing biomechanical forces throughout the lower extremity and restoring normal arch function and mechanics.
