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.

You're Not Too Old to Get Fit!

Getting older comes with a unique set of challenges. Taking extra steps to care for your well-being is crucial to a high quality of life. Many seniors think their physical changes mean they have to stop being active. But, it’s more important than ever to stay in shape as you age.

With adjustments, there are ways for you to take care of your body and feel great.

Benefits of Staying in Shape

Exercise is an essential part of life. But, aging can make exercising a challenge. Staying active helps get the blood flowing through your body and carry oxygen to your organs.

Also, increased blood flow helps endorphins flood your brain. More endorphins help ease tension and stress. Lowering your stress levels helps your self-esteem as negative emotions have been released.

Staying active as you age can help you build and maintain your muscle structure. Our muscle tissue decreases as we age, but working out helps slow this down. Another benefit

of working out is it can help lower your blood pressure. Your blood pressure is crucial to your heart function. Staying fit ensures your heart performs at its best.

While you may think that you’re days of working out are over, you have plenty of reasons to keep going.

Exercises You Can Do

While you may not be able to lift 200 pounds over your head anymore, there are plenty of ways to keep your body strong.

As your body changes, you have to adapt how you work out. For example, jogging can be tough on the knees, back, and ankles. Instead, you can opt for low-impact activities like walking, which are easier to do. Low-impact movements put less strain on the joints but still do the job of keeping you moving.

Also, swimming is another way to ease the tension on your joints. The buoyancy of the water counters the effects of gravity on your body. Negating the pull of gravity allows for more range of motion and helps you complete more challenging movements.

Getting Help

Staying active is crucial to your health as you age.

But, it can be overwhelming to find a routine that works for you. But, you don’t have to do it alone.

Dr. Desio is ready to help you find what works for you. Schedule an appointment in the Worcester office today by calling 508-363-6363.