Impact of Patellar Tendinopathy on Isokinetic Knee Strength and Jumps in Professional Basketball Players

Abstract

Patellar tendinopathy is characterized by tendon pain which may reduce the level of performance. This study’s main aim was to compare isokinetic knee strength and jump performances at the start of the sport season between players with patellar tendinopathy and those without. Secondary aims were to assess the relationship between knee strength and jump function. Sixty-two professional basketball players were enrolled (mean age: 25.0 ± 4.0). All players performed knee isokinetic measurements, single leg countermovement jumps, and one leg hop tests. Correlations between knee strength and jump performances were examined. Twenty-four players declared a patellar tendinopathy and were compared to the 38 players without tendinopathy. The isokinetic quadriceps strength was lower in cases of patellar tendinopathy, and a camel’s back curve was observed in 58% of the cases of patellar tendinopathy. However, jump performances were preserved. No link was found between quadriceps and hamstring limb symmetry indexes at 60 and 180°/s with jumps. This preseason screening enabled us to identify the absence of consequences of patellar tendinopathy in professional basketball players. Jump performances were not altered, possibly due to compensatory strategies.