So-called jumper's knee (patellar tendonitis) is a common overuse condition in athletes, especially in sports such as basketball, volleyball, or track and field. It involves painful irritation of the patellar tendon directly below the kneecap. Despite rest, physical therapy, and conventional pain therapies, the symptoms often persist. In this context, PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy is increasingly gaining attention as a natural, regenerative treatment method. But is PRP really a viable option for chronic jumper's knee?
What happens with jumper’s knee?
In patellar tendonitis, repeated stress causes microscopic damage and inflammation in the patellar tendon. If the tissue is not sufficiently regenerated, the structure of the tendon changes: It becomes less elastic, painful under stress, and can degenerate over time. Chronic pain below the kneecap is the result.
How can PRP help with jumper's knee?
PRP is extracted from the patient's own blood and is rich in growth factors that trigger regenerative processes in the tissue. Through targeted injections into the irritated patellar tendon, PRP can stimulate healing, improve local blood flow, and modulate inflammatory processes.
In contrast to cortisone treatments, which only suppress inflammation, PRP relies on natural regeneration: the tendon can recover structurally, its resilience increases, and the pain can be sustainably alleviated.
When is PRP useful for jumper’s knee?
PRP is particularly suitable for chronic conditions where conservative measures such as physiotherapy, stretching exercises, and rest alone are insufficient. Athletes who wish to avoid surgical treatment and still remain active also find PRP a promising alternative.
In combination with a targeted rehabilitation program (eccentric training, adjustment of training load), PRP can accelerate healing and reduce the risk of recurrence of symptoms.
How does PRP treatment work?
After a blood sample is taken, the platelet-rich plasma is processed and precisely injected into the patellar tendon under sterile conditions. The treatment is minimally invasive, can be performed on an outpatient basis, and is well tolerated. One to three sessions, spaced several weeks apart, are often beneficial.
Conclusion
PRP represents a natural and effective treatment option for patients with chronic jumper's knee. By specifically supporting natural healing, PRP can help relieve pain, regenerate tendon structure, and sustainably restore athletic ability. Especially for active individuals, PRP offers an attractive alternative to surgical interventions or long-term medication.
