A patellar tendon rupture is a challenging injury for athletes and non-athletes alike. This is the tendon that extends from the bottom of the patella to the top of the tibia. It helps to extend the knee and lift the leg. It is not uncommon for athletes in their 20s and 30s to suffer this knee injury.

Mechanism of injury

Typically, you injure the patellar tendon in the same manner as an ACL injury, such as landing awkwardly from a jump.

Treatment options for a patellar tendon rupture – Surgery

You will almost certainly need surgery for a patellar tendon rupture. The surgeon makes an incision down the front of the knee. They put stitches in the torn tendon and reattach the tendon to the bottom of the kneecap.

A patellar tendon rupture involves the tendon just below the patella (kneecap).

Recovery from patellar tendon repair surgery

The recovery and rehab process is a long one. The surgeon might put you in a brace to limit knee motion and protect the repair. Over the next few weeks, you start working on knee motion. Then you start working to improve strength of your quads and other leg muscles. Running and then sport-specific drills follow. The entire surgery and rehabilitation process can take 6 to 9 months, so this is almost always an injury that ends the athlete’s season.

Also read:
Patellar tendon tear: Questions about return to sports and exercise after surgery
Patellar dislocation of the knee: Treatment options

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