How to Dunk With a Jumper's Knee

Jumper's knee (patella tendinopathy) occurs with repeated strain to the knee. Repeated strain on the knee tendons can cause small tears and collagen wear. Jumper's knee is a common injury among athletes whose sports involve frequent jumping. Basketball players who regularly dunk without a problem can find dunking very hard when suffering from jumper's knee. However, with proper knee braces and techniques, dunking can still be achieved when suffering from this condition.

Things You'll Need

  • Proper knee brace
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Instructions

    • 1

      Talk to a health care professional to determine the severity of your injury. Do not attempt to push yourself without knowing the extent of your injured knee.

    • 2

      Find the correct knee brace for your jumper's knee. Simple knee supports or sleeves and even hinged knee braces can all be effective.

    • 3

      Rest during your injury as much as possible. If you do plan to train, adapt your training to reduce landing on the injured knee. Make sure to apply as much cold treatment as possible after exercising.

    • 4

      Get treatment for your knee by either being conservative in your workouts or going the surgical route. Without surgery, you should look for a quadriceps or calf muscle strengthening program to take tension off of the patella tendon, where jumper's knee occurs. Although surgery is a last resort, sometimes taking small cuts out of your tendon is necessary to relieve pressure.

    • 5

      Check with your doctor or sports injury specialist to monitor your injury. You might also want to ask for a rehabilitation program if you are not already on one.