Nadal has been dealing with patellar tendonitis in both knees since the age of 21. Patellar Tendonitis is defined as inflammation of the patellar tendon, which is a thick, organized band of tissue that attaches the kneecap (“patella”) to the shinbone (“tibia”). X-rays are sometimes used to evaluate other possible causes of knee pain, but are not very helpful when diagnosing tendonitis. Alternatively, ultrasonography and MRIs are both useful for identifying patellar tendonitis and localizing the area of “micro-injury” to the tendon. Steroid injections are NOT recommended to treat patellar tendonitis because steroid medication can weaken the tendon and increase the risk of patellar tendon rupture.

Source: Forbes September 09, 2018 15:45 UTC