Physiotherapy for Patellar Tendinopathy – Progressive Tendon-Loading Exercise Therapy Combined with Hip and Core Exercises – An Additional Benefit?

INTERVENTION: Group 1: Group A (control group): Participants receive a 6‐month standardized progressive tendon‐loading exercise (PTLE) program for the patellar tendon, including isometric, isotonic, plyometric and sport‐specific exercises, delivered via online videos and individually adapted to the pain level. Group 2: Group B (intervention group): Participants receive the same PTLE program as Group A, supplemented by specific hip and core stabilization exercises, also delivered via a protected online platform. CONDITION: ; M76.5 Patellar tendinitis PRIMARY OUTCOME: The primary endpoint of the study is the change in the VISA‐P score over 6 months, which assesses pain and function related to the patellar tendon. Participants complete the VISA‐P questionnaire at baseline, 3 months, and 6 months, with the main comparison between baseline and the 6‐month follow‐up. The analysis focuses on the difference in VISA‐P scores between the two groups to determine whether adding hip and core exercises to the PTLE program provides additional benefit compared to PTLE alone. SECONDARY OUTCOME: The secondary endpoint includes assessment of additional clinical parameters related to the patellar tendon such as stability tests, as well as patient satisfaction and activity levels. These measures are taken at multiple time points to capture supplementary therapy effects and sustainability. INCLUSION CRITERIA: Age 18‐35 years, pain localized at the patellar tendon, especially during sports activity, tenderness on palpation at the inferior patella, VISA‐P score below 80 points, physical ability to perform exercises and functional tests