If you’ve ever felt a sharp pain in your knee or struggled to walk after a sudden injury, it might be more than just a sprain. One such common yet severe knee injury is a patellar tendon rupture.
While it may sound complicated, a patellar tendon rupture is simply a tear in the tendon that connects your kneecap to your shinbone. A tear in this tendon impacts your knee’s straightening ability, whether partial or complete. Let’s break it down to understand better.
What Is a Patellar Tendon Rupture?
A patellar tendon tear occurs when the tendon (patellar) that helps straighten the leg is damaged or torn. This injury can be a result of a sudden impact or long-term overuse. The tear may be partial or complete, depending on the severity of the injury. This tendon stabilizes your knee every time you stand, walk, or jump.
Common Causes of Patellar Tendon Tear
The causes of patellar tendon rupture can vary, but it is commonly associated with high-impact activities like sports or heavy weightlifting. Repetitive stress, aging, or pre-existing conditions like tendonitis can also weaken the tendon, increasing the risk of both micro tears and more significant ruptures.
Symptoms of a Patellar Tendon Tear
Early recognition of the symptoms can prevent the condition from worsening. If you’re experiencing any of the following, it might be time to consult a knee specialist doctor:
- Pain in the front of the knee
- Swelling
- Difficulty in walking
- Inability to fully straighten the leg
- A noticeable gap beneath the kneecap (in severe cases)
Treatment Options for Patellar Tendon Tear
The treatment for a patellar tendon tear depends on the severity of the injury. Whether it’s a partial, micro, or complete tear, the goal is to restore function to the knee.
Non-surgical Treatments
For more minor, partial tears or micro tears, conservative treatments might be recommended, such as:
- Rest and avoid activities that strain the knee.
- Physical therapy to strengthen the surrounding muscles.
- Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and pain.
Surgical Treatments
In cases of complete or severe tears, surgery is often necessary. In surgery, the torn tendon is reattached to the kneecap or reinforced with tissue to restore function. Post-surgery, physical therapy is critical to regain strength, flexibility, and full range of motion in the knee. Post-surgery, a tailored rehabilitation plan will typically include”
- Physiotherapy to restore strength and flexibility.
- Gradual return to activity to prevent further damage.
Conclusion
A patellar tendon rupture isn’t just a painful knee injury; if left untreated, it can severely limit mobility and daily activities. Getting the right diagnosis and treatment is critical to restoring your knee’s function, whether a partial tear or a complete rupture.
If you’re struggling with knee pain and mobility issues, it’s time to consult an expert. Dr. Chirag Patel is a highly regarded knee specialist in Mumbai with a proven track record in treating patellar tendon injuries. Whether through conservative treatment or surgery, Dr. Patel will guide you on the best path to recovery. Contact Dr. Chirag Patel’s clinic now to start your healing journey.