Patella (Knee Cap) tendon pain

[MC Bodge]

I have patella tendon soreness at a spot below the left knee which gives some mild pain to touch and when under tension whilst running. It has come on gradually over the past days, although I did bash the side of my kneecap last week, which may have started it.

I have iced it, taken ibuprofen and ridden my bike gently in an attempt to get the blood circulating without harming it.

How long is this likely to take to recover from?
How long should I stay away from running?
Should I wear a patella tendon strap?

I did have a long-term (years) recurring pain in my right patella tendon (with noticeable thickening) that has finally subsided and I am keen to avoid that.


Thanks