What is Quadriceps Tendon Rupture?
Quadriceps tendon is a thick tissue located at the top of the kneecap. The quadriceps tendon works together with the quadriceps muscles to allow us to straighten our leg. The quadriceps muscles are the muscles located in front of the thigh.
Causes of Quadriceps Tendon Rupture
Quadriceps tendon rupture most commonly occurs in middle-aged people who participate in sports which involve jumping and running. Quadriceps tear occurs by a fall, direct blow to the leg and when you land on your leg awkwardly from a jump. Other causes include tendonitis (inflammation of quadriceps tendon), diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes mellitus, infection, and chronic renal failure which weakens the quadriceps tendon. Use of medications such as steroids and some antibiotics also weakens the quadriceps tendon.
Symptoms of Quadriceps Tendon Rupture
When the quadriceps tendon tears, the patella may lose its anchoring support in the thigh and as a result the patella sits lower. You will often be unable to straighten your knee from a bent position and upon standing the knee buckles upon itself.
Treatment of Quadriceps Tendon Rupture
Quadriceps tendon tear can be treated by non-surgical and surgical methods.
Non-surgical Treatment of Quadriceps Tendon Rupture
Non-surgical treatment involves use of knee braces to immobilize the knee. Crutches may be needed to prevent the joint from bearing weight. Physical therapy may be recommended to restore the strength and increase range of motion of the knee.
Surgical Treatment of Quadriceps Tendon Rupture
Surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis. It requires an open procedure, not arthroscopically. The goal of the surgery is to re-attach the torn tendon to the patella and to restore the normal function of the knee.