Patellar tendinopathy outcome predictors in jumping athletes: feasibility of measures for a cohort study

The main aim was to assess feasibility by testing data collection procedures for a cohort study. Measurements validity and reliability were secondary objectives.

Feasibility study.

Combination of remote contact, assessment in clinic and biomechanical evaluation.

36 jumping athletes (female:17, male:19) equally spread between those with patellar tendinopathy, other knee problems and controls.

Measurements validity, reliability and feasibility.

There was no systematic difference between administration methods for patient reported outcome measures and miscellaneous questions (range of d = -0.32 to 0.26) without any order effect (all p > 0.05) except KOOS-PF (p = 0.02). Questionnaires' inter-session reliability was moderate to excellent (ICCs = 0.68-0.93). Pain maps were 94% matched between methods. Training load recall percentage decreased until week-3 with only 20% maintaining a training diary completing the full 6 weeks. The graded loaded challenge was clinically applicable, biomechanically valid with increasing load through progression and reliable (ICCs = 0.63-0.98).

The tested questionnaires were valid and reliable for online use, therefore being suitable for clinical and research purposes. A shorter survey to reduce burden and collecting training load using shorter recall duration should improve feasibility. Biomechanical measures were valid and reliable, and a graded loaded challenge, suitable for further testing, has been defined.