Dr. Adolph Lombardi Jr.
Hip, Knee
Patellar Tendon Tear
If you’re suffering from a knee injury, knee pain, or arthritis, learn how JIS Orthopedics can help you get back to living your life without limits. To schedule a consultation, click the button below!
What Our Patients Say
“What a refreshing change from some of the other doctors I saw for my knees! The entire staff were top notch! No long wait to see the doctor, which is unheard of around here. He was personable, friendly and professional. He provided me an option for my pain which really helped me. He was honest and to the point. So glad I went to him! Highly recommend him!” — Karen H.
The patellar tendon is a crucial part of the knee joint, playing an essential role in leg extension by connecting the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia). This strong band of tissue works together with the quadriceps muscles, allowing you to perform everyday activities such as walking, jumping, and climbing stairs. However, injuries to this tendon can cause significant knee pain and mobility issues.
At JIS Orthopedics, with locations in New Albany and St. Clairsville, OH, we specialize in treating patellar tendon tears and other knee injuries. Our team of expert orthopedic surgeons is dedicated to providing top-notch care to help you recover quickly and return to your active lifestyle.
About the Patellar Tendon
The patellar tendon connects the kneecap (patella) to the shinbone (tibia), playing a critical role in leg extension. On the opposite side of the kneecap, the quadriceps tendon attaches to the quadriceps muscle, which drives the movement of leg extension. The patellar tendon attaches to the base of the kneecap, while the quadriceps tendon connects at the top. Together, these structures allow you to perform essential movements like walking, running, and jumping.
What Is a Patellar Tendon Tear?
A patellar tendon tear occurs when the tendon that connects the kneecap to the shinbone is damaged or torn. This can happen suddenly due to an acute injury or gradually over time due to patellar tendinitis (also known as patellar tendonitis), a condition where the tendon becomes inflamed due to overuse. Tears can be either partial or complete, depending on the severity of the injury.
A partial patellar tendon tear may cause discomfort and limit knee function, but a complete patellar tendon tear or complete tendon rupture can be devastating, making it impossible to straighten the knee or walk without assistance. These injuries often occur during high-impact sports or accidents but can also develop due to long-term wear and tear or underlying conditions like tendon degeneration.
How Does a Patellar Tendon Tear Feel and Look?
A patellar tendon injury typically causes immediate and intense knee pain, especially just below the kneecap. You may also experience swelling, tenderness, and bruising in the affected area. Symptoms of a torn tendon can vary depending on whether the tear is partial or complete.
Common signs and symptoms include:
- Inability to straighten the knee: With a complete patellar tendon rupture, extending the leg becomes impossible without assistance.
- Swelling and bruising: The knee may swell quickly after the injury, and bruising around the kneecap is common.
- Kneecap displacement: When the patellar tendon ruptures, the kneecap may shift higher on the leg since the tendon no longer anchors it in place.
- Weakness in the leg: You may experience weakness or instability in the knee, making it difficult to walk or bear weight on the injured leg.
- A popping sensation: In some cases, people report hearing or feeling a pop at the moment of injury, possibly signaling an acute patellar tendon tear.
In addition to these symptoms, those suffering from chronic patellar tendinitis may notice gradual pain worsening over time, especially during physical activity.
Diagnosis and Doctor's Exam
When you visit a specialist at JIS Orthopedics for knee pain or a suspected patellar tendon tear, the first step is a thorough examination. Your doctor will ask about the onset of symptoms, review your medical history, and perform a physical examination of the knee. They will evaluate the range of motion, strength, and stability of the joint and check for signs of a patellar tendon injury, such as swelling, tenderness, and abnormal positioning of the kneecap.
Diagnostic imaging tests are often used to confirm the extent of the injury:
- X-rays: While X-rays don’t show tendons, they can reveal any displacement of the kneecap and rule out fractures.
- MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging provides detailed images of soft tissues, allowing your doctor to assess the severity of the tear and whether it’s a partial patellar tendon tear or a complete tendon rupture.
Prompt and accurate diagnosis is essential for determining the best course of treatment and improving long-term outcomes.
Treatment Options for a Patellar Tendon Tear
Treatment for a patellar tendon tear depends on the severity of the injury. Both non-surgical and surgical treatments are available.
Non-Surgical Treatments
Surgical Treatment
In cases of partial patellar tendon tears or patellar tendinitis, non-surgical treatments may be effective, including:
- Rest and immobilization: Using a knee brace or immobilizer can help the patellar tendon heal by limiting movement.
- Physical therapy: Once initial pain and swelling subside, physical therapy is critical for regaining strength and flexibility in the knee. Exercises are focused on strengthening the quadriceps muscles and improving the stability of the knee joint.
- Anti-inflammatory medication: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Surgery is often required in the case of a complete patellar tendon tear. The surgeon will reattach the patellar tendon to the kneecap, restoring normal function. Surgery is typically followed by a rehabilitation program to regain strength and mobility in the knee.
Acute patellar tendon tears treated promptly with surgery often result in excellent recovery outcomes, with most patients regaining full knee function after several months of physical therapy.
Recovery and Outlook
The recovery timeline for a patellar tendon injury depends on the extent of the tear and the treatment method used. For non-surgical cases, recovery may take several weeks to months, with consistent physical therapy playing a key role in restoring strength and function.
For those who undergo surgery for a complete patellar tendon tear, the rehabilitation process typically spans six months to a year. Early phases of recovery may involve limited weight-bearing activities, gradually progressing to more intense strengthening exercises as the quadriceps muscles and tendon heal.
With proper treatment and adherence to rehabilitation programs, most patients regain full knee function and can return to their regular activities. However, delays in treatment or incomplete rehabilitation can lead to long-term complications such as chronic pain, stiffness, or reduced mobility.
Get Expert Care for Your Knee Injury
If you are experiencing knee pain or suspect a patellar tendon tear, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. The experienced team at JIS Orthopedics, with convenient locations in New Albany and St. Clairsville, OH, specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of knee injuries, including patellar tendon ruptures and tears.
For expert treatment options and a customized recovery plan, contact us today to schedule an appointment!
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nicholas Walla
Treat Your Knee Pain Today
Arthritis of the knee can be very painful and debilitating, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, it can often be managed successfully. If you suspect knee joint arthritis, schedule an appointment with JIS Orthopedics today! We have offices located in New Albany and St. Clairsville.
MEET OUR KNEE SPECIALISTS
Dr. Keith Berend
Hip, Knee
Dr. Michael Morris
Hip, Knee
Dr. Jason Hurst
Knee, Shoulder
Dr. David Crawford
Hip, Knee
Dr. Zackary Byrd
Hip, Knee
Dr. Nicholas Walla
Sports Medicine
Dr. Alexander G. Athey
Hip, Knee
