Basketball Injuries - Part 3
Patellar tendonitis is another common condition often seen in basketball players. Unlike ACL and meniscal injuries that occur acutely (all of a sudden), patellar tendonitis often develops slowly as an "overuse" or inflammatory type of injury.

Repetitive jumping is the most common activity causing patellar tendonitis or "jumper's knee." Symptoms may include pain and tenderness around the patellar tendon, swelling around the knee, pain with jumping, running, or walking (especially down hill or down stairs).

Treatment for patellar tendonitis may include the use of ice packs, anti-inflammatory medications, rest or modified activity. A patellar tendon strap or brace may be prescribed to prevent further irritation and pain in this area.
High intensity levels of jumping, running, and cutting, combined with the increasing frequency of physical contact in basketball, all continue to stress the athlete's body to or beyond its limits. As a response to these demands, the body may break down leading to injury either of a traumatic or over-use nature. It is important that these injuries are evaluated and treated promptly by trained sports medicine professionals.

At Ahlfeld Sports Medicine, we are experienced with the evaluation and treatment of basketball injuries in men and women of all ages. Our Center has experience in treating those basketball injuries that may require surgical intervention, as well as those that can be treated conservatively without surgery. While the latter group may not require immediate surgery, a patient's conservative treatment plan will include careful evaluation and observation, as well as a custom-designed rehabilitation program.
Dr. Ahlfeld has extensive experience in treating basketball players of all skill levels. He has performed surgical procedures on over twenty professional basketball athletes, including four NBA first-round draft choices.

Please contact Ahlfeld Sports Medicine if we can be of assistance in evaluating or treating any of these injuries. Our goal is to return the amateur, collegiate, or professional athlete to his or her former level of activity in a safe, efficient, and timely manner.

Contacting Ahlfeld Sports Medicine by telephone.

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