Patellar tendonitis, often called Jumper’s Knee, is a common overuse injury causing pain just below the kneecap. It develops from repetitive strain on the patellar tendon, which connects the kneecap to the shinbone. Applying a strap or specific taping technique provides immediate support and relief. This approach manages symptoms, allowing for better function while the tendon recovers.
Understanding the Purpose of Patellar Tendon Strapping
The effectiveness of patellar tendon strapping lies in its ability to alter the biomechanics of the knee joint during movement. The technique applies a focused compressive force directly across the width of the patellar tendon, just below the kneecap. This compression slightly changes the angle of pull for the quadriceps muscle group. By concentrating pressure on this specific area, the strap helps redistribute the forces normally transmitted through the tendon. This action reduces the load on the irritated part of the tendon, shifting the stress to a less-painful region. The aim is to decrease the strain on the tendon fibers, which can immediately lessen pain during activities like running or jumping.
Necessary Supplies and Skin Preparation
To perform a proper patellar tendon wrap, you need specific materials. Primary supplies include rigid athletic strapping tape (usually 38 millimeters wide) and a hypoallergenic under-wrap or adhesive base layer. You will also need sharp medical scissors and, optionally, an adhesive spray.
Proper skin preparation is important for the tape to remain secure and prevent irritation. The skin around the knee must be clean, dry, and free of oils, sweat, or lotions. If there is significant hair, shave the area approximately 12 hours before application to prevent painful removal. Applying the under-wrap first creates a protective layer that improves adhesion.
Step-by-Step Patellar Tendon Taping Technique
The application requires the knee to be positioned in a slight bend (20 to 30 degrees of flexion) to ensure the tape does not restrict movement. This position can be achieved by placing the foot on a low chair or sitting on the edge of a table with the leg slightly extended. The most common method involves creating a horizontal support strap across the tendon.
Measure a strip of rigid tape long enough to cover the width of the patellar tendon with a few inches extending to either side. Locate the patellar tendon just below the kneecap and identify the point of maximum tenderness. The tape must be applied horizontally, directly over this sensitive area.
Peel the backing off the tape and hold it taut, applying it with firm tension directly across the tendon. The tension should create a noticeable compression or lift on the tendon when the leg is straightened. Ensure the ends of the tape strips are smoothed down without tension, anchoring them securely to the skin. For additional support, a second, slightly shorter strip can be overlapped onto the first one.
Once the primary support strips are in place, secure the entire application with two long anchor strips of under-wrap or elastic tape. Place one anchor strip just above the primary rigid tape and the second one just below it. These anchor strips help prevent the rigid tape from peeling up during activity. Finally, rub the application vigorously to activate the adhesive, ensuring a strong bond before physical activity.
Monitoring the Wrap and Safety Guidelines
Immediately after the tape is applied, it is necessary to assess the circulation and sensation in the lower leg and foot. The tape should feel supportive and compressive but must never cause numbness, tingling, or a cold sensation in the foot or toes. These are signs of a compromised blood supply or nerve compression, and the wrap must be removed immediately if they occur. Observe the skin color below the knee for any signs of blue or pale discoloration, which also indicates that the tape is too tight.
The tape should generally be worn only during activities that cause pain and should be removed within 24 to 48 hours to allow the skin to breathe and to prevent irritation. If the pain worsens significantly after application, or if the knee develops swelling or redness that persists after removing the tape, professional medical attention should be sought. Consult a healthcare provider if your pain does not improve with rest and taping after several days, or if you experience a sudden pop, severe pain, or inability to bear weight.