Muhamad Sazeli Rifki, Ilham, Donal Syafrianto, Bekir Erhan Orhan, Vlad Adrian Geantă
Background. Patellar tendinopathy (PT) is a tendon injury that affects the patellar tendon and is characterized by pain during loading, localized just below the patella. Objectives. This study aims to analyze the most effective massage and exercise therapy treatments for patients with PT. It seeks to provide new insights into PT management by focusing on optimal therapeutic interventions through massage and exercise. Methods. A systematic review was conducted across several databases, including PubMed, Google Scholar, CINAHL, UpToDate, Cochrane Reviews, and SPORTDiscus. Fifteen studies meeting the inclusion criteria were selected: (1) investigation of experimental therapies for PT and (2) use of the Victorian Institute of Sports Assessment for the Patella (VISA-P) scale to measure symptom severity. The methodological quality of these studies was assessed using the Coleman Score, while Begg’s and Egger’s tests were applied to identify potential bias. Results. The 15 selected studies demonstrated high methodological quality per the Coleman Score, with no indication of significant bias. Improvements in symptom duration were noted based on VISA-P scores, with significant results (P ≤ 0.05) reported for various treatment protocols. Conclusion. Eccentric training emerged as the most effective exercise therapy for PT; however, it is recommended to combine it with other therapies, such as progressive tendon exercises, which have demonstrated more significant effect sizes for PT management. Effective massage treatments for PT include (1) transverse friction massage, (2) fascial manipulation, and (3) deep friction massage, each contributing to recovery. Further research is warranted to explore the combined effects of massage and exercise therapy in enhancing recovery for PT patients. © 2025, Society of Aging and Physical Activity (SAPA). All rights reserved.
Physical Rehabilitation Research Center, Universitas Negeri Padang, Indonesia; Faculty of Sports Science, Universitas Negeri Padang, Indonesia; Faculty of Sports Sciences, Istanbul Aydın University, Turkey; Faculty of Physical Education and Sport, Aurel Vlaicu University of Arad, Romania
