Jumper’s and Lander’s Knee
Is there a difference between jumper’s and lander’s knee?
Jumper’s knee is a term often used to describe the condition “Patella Tendinopathy” (PT) – a common injury often see in sports that involve repetitive jumping (e.g. Volleyball and Basketball). This condition has a high prevalence rate and the capacity to sideline athletes for up to a year or more. Because of this, it’s important we work towards understanding the condition and what predisposes individuals to getting it. This will not only go a long way in prevention, but it will also help us in the management.
Is it jumping or landing that predisposes athletes to this condition?
Although many individuals hold the belief that jumping is the main cause of PT – research may say otherwise.
What does the research say?
A systematic review done by Van der Worp et al collates the evidence well. This paper assessed multiple randomized controlled trials (RCT’s), looking at how jumping and landing effects the knee. What they found is that the risk for PT is actually greatest during the landing phase – especially during horizontal landing. This is due to changes in the velocity and positioning of the knee while landing, increasing the amount of force through the knee. Furthermore, landing may increase the amount of tendon stiffness which leads to increased loading rates and peak forces going through the patella tendon.
What does this mean?
This means that perhaps it is landing and not jumping that predisposes individuals to PT. So, maybe it is time to stop using the term “Jumper’s Knee” and adopt the more clinically accurate term “Landers Knee”. If you would like to learn more about this injury and you can prevent/treat it make an appointment for knee physiotherapy at Pivotal Motion today. With a wealth of knowledge and a friendly smile, our physiotherapy Brisbane team will happily get you back on track!
