The patella tendon attaches the patella, or kneecap, to the top of the tibia, or shin bone, and is essential in the extension or straightening of the knee. When too much stress, tension or force is exerted on the knee, a patella tendon tear can occur. If you have a patella tendon tear and rupture, treatment is available for this knee injury at the DOCS Health medical center in Los Angeles.

Causes and Symptoms of a Patella Tendon Tear

The patella tendon, patella (kneecap), quadriceps tendon and quadriceps all work together for straightening and extending the knee. The patella tendon can be put under stress when jumping, causing strains or tears. Patella tendon ruptures can also occur due to a direct injury to the knee, from falling on the knee or lacerations just below the knee. Patella tendon tears are more likely to occur when the patella is already weakened by issues like previous injuries, knee surgeries, tendonitis, medical conditions or certain medications.

Tendon tears or ruptures can be partial or complete. A complete tear of the patella tendon will result in the inability to straighten the leg. Other symptoms include:

• A popping sensation when the injury occurs
• Bruising and tenderness below the kneecap
• An indentation below the kneecap
• Knee instability or difficulty walking
• Kneecap moves upward on the knee

A complete patella tendon tear usually occurs at where it attaches to the patella, and it can break off part of the bone when it tears. Ruptures of the tendon due to weakness from tendonitis or other issues may occur in the middle of the tendon.

Patella tendon tear and rupture treatment depends on the location and severity of the injury. Small tears can be treated with non-surgical methods, but severe or complete tears usually require surgery to reattach and repair the tendon.

If you have symptoms of a patella tendon tear, contact us at DOCS Health. We offer advanced options in patella tendon rupture treatment at our orthopedic clinic in Los Angeles.