A torn tendon above the knee after a crash
An orthopedic knee surgeon on quadriceps tendon tears
The quadriceps tendon links your thigh muscles to your kneecap. It works with the tendon below the kneecap to straighten your knee. A direct hit or a hard strain can tear it. [1]
You may feel a pop and notice swelling. Your leg may not straighten or hold you up. A complete tear can look like a broken kneecap. So the exam and imaging are needed to tell the two apart. [1]
Partial tear or full tear
Tell your doctor if you can’t raise your straight leg off the bed. Also mention it if your knee buckles when you stand. Ask whether the tendon is partly torn or has a complete gap. [1]
An X ray may show where the kneecap sits or reveal a broken bone. An MRI may be used when the diagnosis or the size of the tear is unclear. Ask how soon a knee surgeon should see a complete tear. [1]
Protect the tendon while it heals
Small partial tears may be treated in a brace. Complete tears often need surgery to repair them. Either way, you need a specific plan for bending the knee, walking and exercise. [1]
Ask whether the brace must stay locked and when you can take it off to wash. Follow your therapist’s stages. Pushing to get back bending or strength too soon can strain a healing tendon. [1]
Report changes in how the knee works
Call your surgical team if you lose the ability to straighten your knee after treatment. Also call if the wound drains or the brace no longer holds your knee the way you were told it should. Get urgent care for a cold foot, severe pain that keeps getting worse or major new numbness. Tell the team if swelling or weakness keeps you from moving safely at home. [1]
Questions to ask about your tendon
- Is the tear partial or complete, and do you advise surgery?
- What limits on bending and walking apply this week?
- When will therapy and strength testing change the plan?
Practice with the brace before you leave
Before you go home, have your therapist show you how to stand and walk safely in the brace. [1]
Sources and further reading
This page offers general education from an orthopedic knee surgeon’s perspective. A complete tear of the quadriceps tendon needs a prompt exam by a specialist. Your repair will set your own brace and therapy schedule.
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