The quadriceps tendon function with the muscles in the anterior part of the thigh to straighten out the leg. A quadriceps tendon tear particularly a small one can make it hard for an individual to walk and engage in daily activities. For a large-sized tear on the quadriceps tendon, it is debilitating. It requires surgery and physical therapy to restore full functionality of the knee.
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A quadriceps tendon tear is considered uncommon. The injury most often occurs among middle-aged individuals who engage in running or jumping sports.
Close look on a quadriceps tendon tear
A quadriceps tendon tear can be categorized as partial or full.
- Partial – most cases of tears do not fully disrupt the soft tissue.
- Complete – a full tear can split the soft tissue into 2 pieces.
Once the quadriceps tendon fully tears, the muscle could not anchor to the patella. Without this attachment point, the joint could not straighten if the quadriceps muscles contract.
Possible causes
Injuries
A tear often occurs if there is a heavy load on the leg with the foot planted and the knee is partly flexed such as an awkward landing from a jump in basketball. The force from the landing is too stressful for the tendon in which it tears.
The tears can also be brought about by falls, lacerations and a direct blow to the front part of the knee.
Weakness of the tendon
A weakened tendon is more likely to tear. There are various factors that results to weakness such as:
- Tendinitis – the inflammation can weaken the tendon. It might also result to small-sized tears. The condition is common among those who engage in running or jumping sports.
- Chronic disease – the weakened tendons can be caused by conditions that disrupt the supply of blood such as hyperparathyroidism, chronic renal failure, leukemia, gout, infection, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes and metabolic disease.
- Steroid use – the use of these medications has been linked with increased muscle and tendon weakness.
- Immobilization – inactivity for an extended period causes the tendons and muscles that support the knees to lose flexibility and strength
- Fluoroquinolones – this type of antibiotic has been associated with the tears
Surgery
Even though rare, a quadriceps tendon tear can occur after a knee dislocation or surgery.
What are the indications?
In a quadriceps tendon tear, there is a tearing or popping feeling. The swelling and pain usually follow and the individual might not be able to unbend the knee.
Other symptoms include the following:
- Bruising
- Indentation at the upper part of the kneecap where the tendon is torn
- Tenderness
- Cramping
- Difficulty walking due to buckling or giving away of the knee
- Kneecap might droop or sag
Quick Note / Disclaimer
The material posted on this page on quadriceps tendon tear is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn to recognize and manage muscle and joint injuries including quadriceps tendon tear, register for a first aid and CPR course with Saskatoon First Aid.