Patella tendinopathy, commonly known as jumper’s knee, is a condition that affects the tendon connecting the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia). It’s a frequent complaint among athletes involved in jumping sports like basketball, netball, and volleyball, but it can also affect people who do repetitive squatting or running.
If you’ve recently undergone treatment for patella tendinopathy, ongoing physiotherapy is essential for a complete and safe return to your daily activities, work, or sport. At After Hours Physio, we offer expert home physiotherapy services across Melbourne, including Blackburn, Kew, and surrounding suburbs—ideal for patients who are in pain, non-ambulatory, or prefer the convenience of care at home.
What Causes Patella Tendinopathy?
Patella tendinopathy is typically caused by repetitive stress on the patellar tendon, which leads to microtears, degeneration, and eventually chronic pain. Contributing factors include:
- Sudden increase in activity or training load
- Poor lower limb biomechanics
- Muscle imbalances or weakness (especially in the quads and glutes)
- Tight calves or hamstrings
- Inadequate recovery between workouts
Signs and Symptoms
Common symptoms of patella tendinopathy include:
- Localised pain just below the kneecap
- Pain that worsens with jumping, running, or prolonged sitting
- Tenderness when pressing on the tendon
- Stiffness in the morning or after rest
Post-Treatment Physiotherapy Management
Even after medical or surgical treatment, physiotherapy plays a critical role in ensuring long-term recovery and preventing recurrence. Our home-visiting physiotherapists provide one-on-one care tailored to your specific stage of recovery.
1. Load Management and Activity Modification
We begin by gradually reintroducing load to the tendon, ensuring you stay active without aggravating symptoms. Our physios guide you in adjusting daily tasks and recreational activities to protect the healing tendon.
2. Progressive Strengthening Exercises
Patella tendinopathy responds well to progressive resistance exercises, especially eccentric (lengthening) loading of the quadriceps. We design a structured rehab plan including:
- Isometric quads exercises for early-stage pain relief
- Eccentric squats or leg presses
- Functional strength training to improve movement efficiency
3. Biomechanical Correction
Poor hip, knee, or ankle mechanics can contribute to tendon overload. We assess your lower limb alignment, foot posture, and movement patterns and provide targeted exercises to correct these issues.
4. Manual Therapy and Pain Management
Our experienced physios use hands-on techniques like soft tissue release and patellar mobilisation to reduce discomfort and improve tissue flexibility. In acute flares, we may also apply therapeutic ultrasound, TENS, or kinesio taping.
5. Return-to-Activity Planning
Whether you’re returning to sport, work, or daily mobility, we tailor a graded return-to-activity program. This includes functional drills, sport-specific rehab, and reconditioning exercises—all delivered in the comfort of your home.
Why Choose After Hours Physio for Patella Tendinopathy Rehab?
At After Hours Physio, we specialise in urgent and after-hours home physiotherapy across Melbourne. If you’re recovering from patella tendinopathy and can’t attend a clinic—or simply prefer one-on-one care at home—we’re here for you.
✅ Available evenings, weekends, and public holidays
✅ Experienced in post-treatment tendon rehabilitation
✅ Mobile service covering Blackburn, Box Hill, Balwyn, Kew, and surrounding suburbs
✅ Ideal for non-ambulatory or high-pain patients
✅ Evidence-based, personalised care in your own home
Book a Home Visit Today
Don’t let patella tendinopathy stop you from moving forward. Let our physiotherapists guide you through a safe and effective recovery—right from your living room.
📞 Call us now or book online to schedule your after-hours home physio appointment in Melbourne.