Quadriceps Tendon Tear

The quadriceps tendon attaches the quadricep muscles to the patella bone in the lower, front part of the thigh, just above the knee. These muscles, tendons and bones work together to help straighten the knee. A quadriceps tear is a serious injury that can cause loss of knee function. The quadriceps tendon may become inflamed and eventually tear from athletic activity that strains the tendons, such as running, bicycling and dancing. Jumping activities, such as playing basketball, may put an athlete at a higher risk of a quadriceps tear, as landing puts immense strain on the quadriceps tendon. Quadriceps tendon tears can also be caused by falls or direct force to the front of the knee. Although a quadriceps tendon tear may occur at any age, it is more common in middle-aged individuals who are physically active.

A quadriceps tendon tear may be considered partial or complete. A partial tear has not completely disrupted the tissue of the quadriceps tendon and it may be stretched, but still in one piece. A complete tear results in tissue that has split into two pieces and the muscle is no longer attached to the knee cap. Treatment for a quadriceps tendon tear may vary based on the type of tear that has occurred.

Symptoms of a Quadriceps Tendon Tear

When the quadriceps tendon tears, there is sometimes a tearing or popping sensation within the thigh. Additional symptoms of a quadriceps tear may include:

Pain just above the knee cap
Swelling
Tenderness around the knee cap
Bruising
Indentation just above the knee cap

In most cases, individuals are also unable to straighten the knee and have difficulty walking as the knee may buckle or give out.

Diagnosis of a Quadriceps Tendon Tear

A quadriceps tendon tear is diagnosed through a physical examination and the doctor may also test whether the individual can extend or straighten the knee. X-rays and MRI scans are performed to determine the severity of the tear and the exact location of the injury.

Treatment of a Quadriceps Tendon Tear

Treatment for a quadriceps tendon tear depends on the severity of the tear, the age of the patient and the activity level of his or her lifestyle. Partial tears may respond to immobilization through the use of a knee immobilizer or brace. Physical therapy can also help to restore strength and range of motion. Complete and more severe tears often require surgery to repair the torn tendon. Surgeons usually use very strong sutures to stitch the tendons back together and to help hold the tendon to the kneecap while the tendon heals. Physical therapy is also important after surgery to help the patient regain flexibility and full mobility of the knee.

My Shoulders Are Letting Me Down

We rely on our shoulders for countless tasks. It can be problematic when they don’t function at our best and can make ordinary tasks a challenge. Finding a cause behind unstable shoulders can help bring pain relief and peace of mind. Here are some reasons behind your shoulder pain and what you can do to treat it.

What Causes Shoulder Instability?

Your shoulders play a pivotal role in how you go about your daily life. Unstable shoulders can frequently come out of place, making everyday activities difficult.

One cause of shoulder instability is severe trauma to the shoulder. An injury such as a dislocation causes the head of your shoulder to dislocate from the socket. The initial shoulder dislocation can result in repeated dislocations and further instability.

Genetics may be another cause of shoulder instability. Some people are born with naturally loose shoulder ligaments. Excessively loose shoulder ligaments called Hyperlaxity can cause shoulder instability. This can occur without prior dislocations or a history of strains. Hyperlaxity can increase the chances of dislocating your shoulder or weakening the joint.

Symptoms of Shoulder Instability

Several symptoms characterize shoulder instability. Shoulder instability symptoms include

A loose feeling in the shoulder
The shoulder giving out
Repeated shoulder dislocations
Pain

How is Shoulder Instability Diagnosed?

Professional examination is how shoulder instability is diagnosed.

If you’re having shoulder trouble, your doctor can order imaging tests to find the cause. One tool to find the cause of your shoulder pain is an x-ray. The x-ray helps doctors to take a thorough look at the bones around your shoulder joint and examine them for signs of injury. Your doctor may also order an MRI for further examination. An MRI provides a detailed image of the tissues around your shoulder and helps find damage to the ligaments and tendons in the joint.

How Are Unstable Shoulders Treated?

Your treatment plan depends on the nature and severity of your symptoms. First, you may need to avoid activities that worsen your symptoms. If you can’t stay away from pain-inducing activities, modifying your movements may help give you some relief. Also, anti-inflammatory pain medications and physical therapy can help.

If your shoulder problems need more aggressive treatment, our office can help. Schedule a consultation by calling (508) 363-6363.