Quadriceps & Patellar Tendon RuptureWhat are the quadriceps tendon and patellar tendon?
The quadriceps tendon and patellar tendon (or patellar ligament) are parts of the extensor mechanism of the knee. It is the extensor mechanism that allows us to straighten our knee or perform a kicking motion. When the quadriceps muscle (thigh muscle) contracts, force is transmitted through the quadriceps tendon, across the patella (kneecap), through the patellar tendon, and the knee is straightened. Both the quadriceps tendon and patellar tendon are thick fibrous tissues. Unlike muscle, these tendons do not expand and contract. They are strong tissues meant to transmit the pulling force of the quadriceps muscle. How does the quadriceps tendon or the patellar tendon rupture? Typically, patients who experience this injury fall on to a partially bent knee. When the quadriceps muscle contracts to break the fall, the quadriceps tendon or patellar tendon cannot withstand the force and ruptures. This injury is most common in middle-aged (30-60 year olds), part-time athletes (weekend warriors
