Tendons, located between muscle and bone, transmit force from the former to the latter, allowing joint movement. They are composed mainly of collagen, elastin and water, and are divided into three zones: osteotendinous junction (tendon-bone), myotendinous junction (muscle-tendon) and the tendon body.
Knee tendinosis is a pathology that affects the tendons of this joint due to the breakdown of collagen in the tendon body, characterised by pain during and after exercise, inflammation and loss of function. It is common in athletes, especially in jumping sports such as basketball and volleyball, due to repetitive strain, injury or ageing. Factors such as weight, leg length and muscle strength can influence its development. Radiologically, patellar tendon thickening, and abnormalities are seen.
Treatment includes eccentric exercises, shock wave therapy, ultrasound-guided sclerosis, anti-inflammatory drugs, plasma injections and aprotinin. Neurodynamic theory suggests that altered mechanosensitivity of the femoral nerve may contribute to knee pain, and neurodynamic techniques can improve nerve mobility and reduce symptoms.
A strength exercise with isometric contractions can decrease pain for up to 45 minutes, being a therapeutic option for patellar tendinopathy without affecting muscle strength.
The research project presented in the master's thesis aims to compare the effectiveness of femoral nerve mobilisation and therapeutic exercise in the treatment of knee tendinosis.
- Patients aged 18 to 40 years old
Patients with chronic or acute knee tendinosis
Who have pain or functional limitation
Patients with a contraindication to treatment
Patients with a history of recent knee surgery or serious injury
Who present neurological pathologies
Who are using other physiotherapy techniques