Quadriceps or patellar tendon tear

Overview

The tendon above or below the kneecap tears.

You can't straighten the knee.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Can't straighten the knee
• Knee pain
• Knee gives way or popped

Less common

• Gap above or below the kneecap

When to get medical care

Causes

Sudden force.

Who is more likely to get it

• Over 40
• Steroid use

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• MRI:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Keep the knee straight in a brace
• Use crutches and a brace
• Ice the knee

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Warm up

Which doctor treats this

• Urgent care or the ER can treat it first. For minor problems, your primary care provider can help.
• They may send you to an orthopedist (bone and joint doctor) or a sports medicine doctor.
• A physical therapist can help with exercises to rebuild strength and motion.

Back to school, work, or sports

• School or desk work is often OK within days. Jobs with lifting may need light duty for a while.
• Go back to sports only when your doctor says it's OK and you have full motion and strength without pain.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Men over 40: Most common.
• Athletes: Jumping sports.

Outlook

Surgery and rehab restore walking.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Quadriceps or patellar tendon tear