Effects of a strength protocol combined with electrical stimulation on patellar tendinopathy: 42 months retrospective follow-up on 6 high-level jumping athletes

Abstract

Study designA retrospective study. IntroductionPatellar tendinopathy (PT) or jumper's knee (JK) in elite athletes is a challenging condition for sports medicine professionals. This study analyzes the development of a protocol using eccentric, isometric, concentric exercises, and electrostimulation to treat elite athletes suffering from JK. The semiannual strength protocol was completed during a total of 36 months by six high-level jumping athletes with chronic painful JK. Pain during patellar tendon loading activity was evaluated on a visual analogue pain scale (VAS). Upon protocol completion, promising clinical results were evidenced by significant pain reduction during tendon loading activity. Material and methodsSix high level jumping athletes with chronic painful JK completed a semiannual strength program using eccentric, isometric, concentric and electrical stimulation exercises. The protocol was done 12 weeks in the winter pre-season and 10 weeks in the summer pre-season, for altogether 36 months, with an interruption of the protocol at 24 months for 6 months. Pain during patellar tendon loading activity was evaluated on a visual analogue pain scale (VAS), before the first session and then every 6 months, coinciding with the competitive phase, the time of maximum pain. ResultsThere was a significant (p < 0.01) decrease in the VAS from start to the 18, 24 and 48 months follow-ups. ConclusionsIn a small group of high level jumping athletes with chronic painful JK, a strength protocol combined with electrical stimulation showed promising clinical results with significant pain reduction during tendon loading activity.