Prognostic Value of Conventional Ultrasound and MRI Features for Clinical Outcomes in Athletes With Patellar Tendinopathy After Exercise Therapy.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Structural abnormalities assessed with conventional ultrasound (US) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are associated with the risk of developing patellar tendinopathy (PT). However, their prognostic value for athletes with PT performing exercise therapy remains unclear.

Hypothesis

Baseline imaging features could be associated with changes in pain and disability over 24 weeks in athletes with PT after exercise treatment.

Study design

Cohort study.

Level of evidence

Level II.

Methods

Athletes with PT were randomly allocated to 2 different programs of exercise therapy for 24 weeks. Imaging features at baseline included patellar tendon thickness, intratendinous calcifications, patellar erosions, and Doppler flow on US, as well as tendon fiber di

SUBMITTER: Deng J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12846899 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature