Quadriceps tendon tear happens in the large tendon above the kneecap is partially or completely torn. Its a strong cord tissue connecting muscle to a bone. This tendon connects the front thigh muscles (quadriceps) to the quadriceps tendon. This condition is also called quadriceps tendon rupture or torn quadriceps tendon.
The quadriceps tendon works with the front thigh muscles, the quadriceps to straighten the leg. A complete quadriceps tendon tear is disabling. It usually requires surgery for full knee function. Anyone can injure the quadriceps tendon, a quad tear is more common among the athletic middle-aged that run or jump frequently.
Symptoms of torn quadriceps are tearing or a popping sensation generally swelling follows. Additional symptoms include:
- an indentation at the top of the kneecap where the tendon tore
- bruising
- tenderness
- cramping
- the kneecap may sag or droop because of the tear
- inability to straighten the knee
- difficulty walking because the knee can buckle
Anatomy
Four quadriceps muscles intersect above the kneecap (patella) to the quadriceps tendon. Tendons attach muscles to bones. The quadriceps tendon attaches the quadriceps muscles to the patella. The patella is attached to the shinbone (tibia) by its tendon, the patellar tendon. These muscles, tendons and the patella straighten the knee.
Tears are partial or complete. Partial tears agitate the soft tissue similarly to rope fibers overstretched then are frayed. Complete tears split the soft tissue into two pieces.
The severity of injury determinates the physical therapy for a torn quad muscle. Initially a brace and crutches are commonly used coupled with unconditional rest from an athletic lifestyle. Physiotherapy helps the knee joint range of motion (ROM), improves muscle strength and endurance. Always revise with a physiotherapist for a home management and exercise program. Progression of recovery determinates the treatments and program you start.
Physiotherapy Exercises and Strengthening
Once the initial pain and swelling subsides, physical therapy begins. Specific quadriceps exercises can restore strength and range of motion. Torn quad muscles need exercises to preserve circulation that prevent blood clots. More extensive exercises can start upon the progression. Do not start exercises without a physician’s approval.
Popular strengthening exercises are
- Range of Motion Exercises- passive range of motion (PROM) exercises, active- assistive range of motion (AAROM) exercises, and active range of motion (AROM) exercises, and circulation exercises
- Gradual Quadriceps Strengthening exercises- isometric exercises (quadriceps setting), straight leg raising (SLR), and weight training
Unless you have a complete tear and need surgery about four months heals most tears sometimes in six months. Complete tears after surgery require 12 months of rehabilitation to return to an athletic lifestyle, and to expedite rehabilitation despite the severity, image tests like X-rays and MRIs are vital.
