Knee Injuries - Gymnastics Injuries

Many of the events in gymnastics involve continuous landing on a piece of apparatus or on the ground; this applies considerable pressure to the knees making them susceptible to damage and injury.

Osgood Schlatter’s disease

What is Osgood Schlatter’s disease?

This condition is common in adolescent gymnasts and is caused primarily by overuse and repetitive actions which require repeated use of the quadriceps muscles such as running and jumping.

Symptoms of Osgood Schlatter disease

The most common symptom is pain just below the kneecap which may intensify during physical activity. A bony mass may also develop where the knee meets the shin; this is usually painless and should not cause any problems.

Treatment for Osgood Schlatter disease

Treatment usually involves rest; this condition is only common in young people so most gymnasts will grow out of it. Pain can usually be eased with over the counter medicines. Ice packs may also help to reduce swelling and ease pain.

Patellar tendonitis

What is patellar tendonitis?

Patellar tendonitis occurs when the patellar tendon (sometimes referred to as the patellar ligament) becomes inflamed; this tendon attached the kneecap to the tibia. This condition is also known as runner’s knee.

Causes of patellar tendonitis

The most common cause of this condition is overuse; this is usually a progressive injury. People who participate in sports that involve jumping, falling and a lot of changes of direction are particularly prone to developing this condition.

Symptoms of patellar tendonitis

The most common symptom is pain which will increase gradually as exercise persists; usually pain will be most intense beneath the kneecap. Swelling is also a common symptom.

Treatment for patellar tendonitis

Initially treatment should involve rest, elevation and frequent application of ice packs; this will help to reduce swelling and pain.

Preventing patellar tendonitis

The most effective means of prevention are a thorough warm-up and cool down and a sufficient period of rest between training sessions.

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