Study of Collagen and Vitamin C Supplements Alongside Exercise for Treating Patellar Tendinopathy Jumpers Knee in Athletes Aged 16 to 40

What this Trial Is About

Patellar tendinopathy PT is a common overuse injury affecting the tendon in athletes, sometimes causing long breaks from sports and limiting performance and health benefits. This research evaluates whether adding oral hydrolysed collagen and vitamin C supplements to standard care, which includes education, load management, and tendon loading exercises, improves recovery in athletes with PT. The study is a randomized controlled trial designed to assess the effect of the supplement on tendon symptoms and function over time. The trial compares two groups one receiving a nutritional supplement containing 10g hydrolysed collagen and 40mg vitamin C daily for 24 weeks, and the other receiving a placebo supplement made of maltodextrin. Both groups follow a structured progressive tendon loading exercise program and receive education and load management advice. The exercise program spans 24 weeks and is based on pain limits, aiming to improve tendon strength and function. Participants will complete questionnaires assessing tendon pain and function at multiple times up to one year, including the VISA-P score. Additional evaluations include functional tests, advanced imaging of the tendon, blood tests for amino acids and inflammation, dietary assessments, and weekly records of exercise and supplement adherence. These measures help researchers understand how the supplement and exercise program affect tendon health and recovery over time.

Effect of Collagen/Vitamin C in Jumper's Knee; a RCT