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Patellar tendonitis is an irritation or
inflammation of the major tendon in front of the knee. This condition
is usually the result of overuse or sudden changes in the level of
athletic activity. An inflamed patellar tendon causes pain during flexion or extension of the lower leg and limits mobility of the joint.
Injuries are usually minor and do not require immediate medical
attention. However, severe cases can cause very debilitating pain.
The injury is common in runners, the result of repetitive motion of
the inflamed tendon. Sports like basketball in which jumping and landing cause repeated stress on the tendon are also a frequent cause of this condition.
The infrapatellar bursa is often irritated in conjunction with the tendon and is similarly painful and inflamed.
Non-surgical treatments can be used to reduce swelling and irritation, although in more extreme cases, a doctor may remove (aspirate)fluid from the inflamed bursa to lessen both the pressure and pain in the front of the knee. If prolonged swelling and inflamation continue, arthroscopic surgery may be considered.
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