Conditions Treated Knee Quadricep Tendon Rupture

Quadricep Tendon Rupture

A quadricep tendon rupture is a significant injury involving a complete tear or rupture of the quadriceps tendon, which connects the quadriceps muscles at the front of the thigh to the kneecap (patella). The quadriceps tendon is essential for extending the knee and is involved in activities such as walking, running, and jumping.

Quadriceps tendon ruptures most commonly occur due to sudden and forceful contractions of the quadriceps muscles while the knee is bent, typically during activities involving jumping or landing. Direct trauma to the knee, such as a fall or impact, can also cause the tendon to rupture.

Symptoms of a quadriceps tendon rupture may include a sudden, sharp pain at the front of the knee, swelling, bruising, an inability to straighten the knee or bear weight on the affected leg, and a noticeable gap or depression above the kneecap where the tendon has torn. 

Most Common Type of Quadricep Tendon Ruptures

Quadriceps tendon ruptures are significant injuries that involve a tear in the tendon that connects the quadriceps muscles to the patella (kneecap). These injuries can vary in severity based on the extent of the tear and the degree of disruption to the tendon. Here are some common types of quadriceps tendon ruptures:

A complete quadriceps tendon rupture occurs when the tendon is completely torn, resulting in a complete separation of the quadriceps muscle from the patella. This is a severe injury that typically causes significant pain, swelling, and inability to extend the knee. Individuals with a complete rupture are often unable to bear weight on the affected leg and may have difficulty walking or performing daily activities.

In a partial quadriceps tendon rupture, only a portion of the tendon is torn, leaving some attachment intact. This type of injury may cause pain, swelling, and weakness in the knee, but individuals may still have some degree of function and mobility. Partial tears can sometimes progress to complete ruptures if left untreated or with continued stress on the tendon.

Acute traumatic quadriceps tendon ruptures typically occur suddenly during activities that involve forceful contraction of the quadriceps muscle, such as jumping, landing, or sudden acceleration. These injuries are often associated with a direct blow to the knee or a forceful eccentric contraction of the quadriceps muscle while the knee is bent. Acute traumatic ruptures may result in a complete tear of the tendon and require immediate medical attention.

Chronic degenerative quadriceps tendon ruptures develop gradually over time due to repetitive stress, degenerative changes, or underlying tendon pathology. These injuries are more common in individuals with chronic tendinopathy (tendon degeneration) or pre-existing conditions such as patellar tendinosis (jumper's knee). Chronic degenerative ruptures may present with chronic knee pain, weakness, and functional limitations before progressing to a complete tear.

Specialized Quadricep Tendon Rupture Treatment in Montgomery County, Maryland

Receive personalized care for quadriceps tendon ruptures at The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics: Maryland Orthopedic Specialists Division. Our dedicated team of orthopedic specialists offers advanced treatment options tailored to address your specific needs and facilitate optimal healing. Whether you're experiencing pain, weakness, or difficulty with knee movement due to a quadriceps tendon rupture, we're here to help you find relief and restore functionality. Contact us at (301) 515-0900 or schedule your appointment online to begin your journey towards recovery and improved knee health.

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