Patellar tendinopathy, sometimes called jumper’s knee, is the kind of pain that starts as a manageable ache below the kneecap and gradually becomes the thing that decides whether you squat, jump, or lunge today. If you have been training around it, avoiding the movements that provoke it, you are treating the symptom and losing capacity at the same time.
How we approach patellar tendinopathy
Resting the tendon settles the pain temporarily, but the pain returns the moment you reload it, because rest does not build the capacity the tendon needs. We assess how the tendon responds to load, look at ankle mobility, gluteal contribution, and whether the anterior chain is absorbing more than its share during squatting, jumping, and landing. The tendon adapts to progressive loading. We make sure the loading is structured, graded, and connected to your sport.
What treatment looks like
Treatment follows a tendon loading progression. We start with isometric holds to manage pain and begin building tolerance, then progress to slow, heavy isotonic loading through exercises like the Spanish squat. Ankle dorsiflexion mobilisation and glute activation work run alongside the tendon programme to ensure load is shared properly. For athletes in Hyrox, CrossFit, or jumping sports, the final stage reintroduces plyometric and reactive loading.
Who can help
Any of our physiotherapists can assess and treat patellar tendinopathy. If you are competing in Hyrox, functional fitness, or running, Isabelle Chow sees patellar tendon issues in these athletes regularly. If the pain is tied to squatting, lifting, or powerlifting, TJ Chen can assess how your squat mechanics are loading the tendon.
Go deeper
Our article on Hyrox wall balls covers patellar and quadriceps tendinopathy in the context of high-rep squatting under fatigue. Read the Hyrox wall balls guide →