Clinical Presentation & Protocol
Patient Usually Complains Of
Patient presents with localized anterior left knee pain, exacerbated by jumping, running, and prolonged sitting (moviegoer's sign). Onset is insidious, localized to the inferior pole of the patella. No history of acute trauma, locking, or giving way. Pain intensity is rated at [X]/10, aggravated by eccentric loading.
Clinical Examination Findings
Inspection reveals no erythema or significant effusion. Palpation demonstrates focal tenderness at the inferior pole of the patella/patellar tendon insertion. Pain is elicited upon resisted knee extension and eccentric squatting. Range of motion is full and painless. Ligamentous stability (ACL/PCL/MCL/LCL) is intact. Meniscal provocation tests (McMurray/Thessaly) are negative.
Treatment Protocol
Initiate conservative management: activity modification (avoidance of aggravating jumping/loading activities), eccentric strengthening program (decline squats), and cryotherapy post-activity. Consider patellar tendon strap for symptom relief. Prescribe NSAIDs as needed for inflammation. Follow-up in [X] weeks to assess progress with physical therapy.