Massage for Jumper’s knee or Patellar tendonitis forms an important part of treatment and rehabilitation. Both cross friction massage to the tendon itself and general massage techniques for the thigh muscles form part of our full Jumper’s knee rehab program.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Chaminda Goonetilleke, 21st Dec. 2021
Contraindications to Patellar tendon massage
Before beginning any massage treatment your therapist will check for contraindications. A contraindication is something that indicates massage is not suitable, or worse, could cause further injury or damage. In particular, be aware of the following with:
- Acute Patellar tendon inflammation
- You suspect a tendon rupture
- Knee bursitis
- Recent contusions
If any of the above apply then massage is not suitable.
View all Massage contraindications
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When should I apply massage?
Cross friction massage helps treat Patella tendonitis/tendinopathy, but only after the initial acute stage has passed. Massage is often considered as a treatment option for more long term, chronic cases which fail to respond to initial treatment.
How to apply patellar tendon cross friction massage
Apply gentle pressure to the thigh muscles, just above the patella. This tilts the bottom of the patella upwards. As a result, the point at where the tendon attaches to the patella is exposed and more easily accessed. Therefore it is much easier to apply cross frictions to the tendon.
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Apply gentle cross friction massage techniques forwards and backwards across the Patellar tendon. Do not go too hard. It should not be so deep that you cause significant pain.
It is important to go across the line of the tendon. Your aim is to align newly formed scar tissue along the length of the tendon and you do this by massaging across it.
Thigh muscle massage
As well as cross friction massage to the patellar tendon, massaging the quadriceps muscles at the front of your thigh is also a good idea. Massage helps loosen your muscles and increases the effectiveness of stretching exercises.
