In plain language
The tendon connecting the front thigh muscles to the kneecap tears, potentially disabling active extension.
Clinical Significance & Management
Distinguish partial from complete tearing and assess extension promptly.
Symptoms & Clinical Presentation
Pain, swelling or a gap above the kneecap, weak extension or giving way.
Etiology & Injury Mechanisms
- Strong contraction on a loaded bent knee or falling; degeneration and systemic disease may increase risk.
Diagnostics & Imaging Guide
Extension and straight-leg raise assessment, X-rays and selected MRI.
Treatment Options
Protect the knee; partial tears may need bracing and rehabilitation, complete tears usually surgical assessment.
Rehabilitation Milestones & Timeline
Rehabilitation depends on the diagnosis, procedure and associated injuries. Progression requires assessment of healing, symptoms and function; elapsed time or a single test cannot determine readiness for sport.
Rehabilitation progression
Increase motion and loading according to healing before rebuilding extension strength.
Evidence-Based Clarifications
Swelling can obscure a tendon gap.
Sources & References
Educational clinical definitions synthesized from AAOS, Cleveland Clinic, Mayo Clinic, and HSS. Individual diagnosis and surgery require professional medical evaluation.
Publication date
Content updated