Diseases of the quadriceps tendon
A quadriceps tendon rupture is a complete or incomplete tear of the attachment tendon of the M. quadriceps femoris, the large leg extensor. The tear is usually located just above the patella or between the patella and the muscles. A quadriceps tendon rupture is characterized by sudden sharp, stabbing pain in the area of the knee.
The causes can be varied. A frequent reason for a quadriceps tendon rupture is overstrain after already existing minor injuries or existing degenerative changes due to advanced age. The triggering strain often does not have to be massive.
Even normal loads in the context of sporting activities are partly sufficient. Another possible cause of a tear in the quadriceps tendon is massive overloading. This often occurs in some sports.
For example, strength training with a lot of weight in a flexed position can cause a rupture. In addition, movements against resistance can also cause a rupture. The quadriceps tendon is rarely injured by a direct injury such as a cut.
The diagnosis is usually based on a clinical examination. For this, an attempt is made to palpate a gap between the kneecap and the muscle. In addition, the knee should be tried to stretch.
In difficult cases, further imaging procedures can be used. The therapy usually consists of an operation. Since the ends of the tendons can recede considerably, they are fixed together with sutures.
With appropriate therapy and aftercare, the condition as before quadriceps tendon rupture can be achieved. However, in older patients the situation can often worsen overall. Inflammation of the quadriceps tendon is a sign of chronic overloading or chronic malpositioning when the quadriceps tendon is used.
This inflammation of the quadriceps tendon makes itself felt through pain. At the beginning of the inflammation, it is not permanent, but only occurs during some movements. These movements usually include flexion and internal rotation.
In later stages, the pain can become permanent and may be present regardless of the position of the tendon. There may also be swelling or a feeling of stiffness. Improvement is sometimes achieved by moderate training, so that the structures are warmed up.
Inflammation of the quadriceps tendon is more common in people who put a lot of strain on their knees during sports. These are mainly run-intensive sports with many and rapid changes of direction. These include all indoor sports such as handball or volleyball.
Soccer, tennis and basketball are also among them. In addition, cyclists often suffer from irritated quadriceps tendons because they very often perform a constant movement under stress. The diagnosis is based on a clinical examination.
In special cases, further imaging diagnostics can be used. The therapy consists of a reduction of the load for up to several weeks. This can extend to a complete cessation of activity. Wearing orthoses can also help. The use of Kinesiology Tape is also helpful.
