Email this article Development of Progressive Lower-Limb Strengthening Program for Patellar Tendinopathy in Long Jump Athletes: A Pilot Study
Abstract
Patellar tendinopathy is a common load-related condition among jumping athletes and may substantially affect training participation and performance. This study aimed to develop an integrated lower-limb strengthening exercise model and preliminarily evaluate its feasibility and changes in pain intensity among long jump athletes with patellar tendinopathy. The development process consisted of problem analysis, data collection, exercise design, design validation, revisions, expert validation, and small-scale pilot implementation. The initial trial was conducted on five long jump athletes using a pilot study. Pain levels were measured using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) before and after the implementation of the exercise program. The development results produced four exercise models, including single-leg eccentric squat, control exercises, single-leg standing balance exercises, and tiptoe standing exercises. Mean of VAS scores decreased from 7.20 ± 0.84 to 3.00 ± 0.71, corresponding to a mean reduction of 4.20 ± 1.30 points (57.50 ± 12.29%). The findings indicate that a progressive leg muscle strengthening program can help reduce pain associated with patellar tendinitis. Isometric contractions, low-load dynamic movements, and functional training may improve the strength of the quadriceps, hamstrings, and supporting knee muscles. The developed exercise model can support athletes with patellar tendinitis as part of physiotherapy rehabilitation. This model is expected to improve knee function, reduce pain, and support better quality of life and athletic performance.
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References
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.17509/jpjo.v11i2.105847
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