Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome, Patellar Tendinopathy
Knee Pain in Tennis Players
Knee Pain in Tennis Players
Knee pain is a common issue among tennis players, largely due to the sport’s high demands on the lower limbs. Tennis involves frequent changes of direction, quick acceleration and deceleration, lunges, jumps, and sudden stops — all of which place significant stress on the knees. Two of the most common knee conditions seen in tennis players are Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) and Patellar Tendinopathy.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome is characterised by pain around or behind the kneecap, often triggered by activities like squatting, lunging, or climbing stairs. It can also become noticeable after sitting for long periods.
Patellar Tendinopathy (sometimes called “jumper’s knee”) affects the tendon that connects the kneecap to the shinbone and is typically linked to tendon overload, especially during jumping or pushing off forcefully.
Symptoms:
- Pain around or beneath the kneecap
- Discomfort during or after squats, lunges, or long periods of sitting
- Tenderness when pressing on the front of the knee
- Pain that worsens with running, jumping, or stairs
How physiotherapy helps:
Physiotherapy plays a vital role in both treatment and prevention. We begin with a detailed assessment of your movement patterns, biomechanics, and muscle activation. From there, we create a personalised rehabilitation plan. This often includes strengthening the quadriceps, glutes, and calf muscles, improving hip and ankle mobility, and gradually reintroducing sport-specific movements.
In cases of tendinopathy, shockwave therapy may be used to stimulate tissue healing and reduce pain. Education around load management is also crucial to avoid aggravating the condition further.
Self-management tips:
- Strengthen your quads, glutes, and hips consistently
- Avoid pushing through sharp or persistent knee pain
- Progress your training gradually, especially when increasing jumping or lunging
Prevention:
Incorporate single-leg strength training, balance exercises, and controlled exposure to lunging and jumping into your routine. This not only enhances knee resilience but also improves your performance on the court.
If you’re dealing with knee pain while playing tennis, early physiotherapy intervention can help prevent long-term issues and get you back to playing pain-free.