You may benefit from aphysical therapy (PT) programif you have torn your patellar tendon.
One important component of your patellar tendon rehab is an exercise program.
More importantly, the exercise program for your patellar tendon can help you return to your normal functional mobility.
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By definition, a ligament is a structure that attaches two bones together.
But the patellar tendon is called a tendon because it is really an extension of the quadriceps tendon.
Yourquadriceps muscle(quads) is the large muscle that courses down the front of your thigh.
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It crosses over your patella, first as the quad tendon, and then as the patellar tendon.
It then attaches to the front of your shin.
The quads are primarily responsible for extending, or straightening, your knee joint.
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How Does the Patellar Tendon Rupture?
The patellar tendon typically ruptures after some sort of trauma.
There are two types of patellar tendon tears: partial or complete.
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In a partial tear, only part of the tendon is torn.
Your physical therapist can help you with this rehab process.
Your healthcare provider can examine your knee and properly diagnose your condition.
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Initial care for a patellar tendon tear includes theR.I.C.E.
Your physical therapist can guide your rehab.
Measurements will be taken.
Your PT may also choose to use specifictechniques and modalitiesto help augment your rehab program.
(There is also some slight rotation in your knee joint.)
Your physical therapist may prescribe exercises to improve the way your knee bends and straightens.
Heels slides may be done to improve knee flexion ROM.
To do this:
Your PT may also have you perform supine static knee flexion.
Therefore, your knee will likely have full extension ROM.
In some cases, a slight loss of knee extension may occur.
To improve knee extension range of motion, you’re able to perform theprone hang exercise.
Your PT may prescribe an exercise called the quad set to do this.
The electricity helps to create a more robust contraction, helping to re-educate the muscle into functioning properly.
Quad sets are typically done in the early stages of rehab when gentle, isometric contractions are indicated.
This gets your quad functioning while still protecting the injured patellar tendon.
Start light with a 1- or 2-pound weight, and place the weight around your thigh first.
These altered positions strengthen thegluteus musclesof your hip.
Research has shown thatproper glute function is essential for normal walking and running.
The mini squat and wall squat are great ways to progress with that.
(Proprioception is your body’s ability to determine where it is in the environment.)
Part of your patellar tendon rehab may be to improve proprioception and balance to regain normal safe walking ability.
Your balance systems must be challenged, and this may increase your risk of falling.
Be sure there is something stable to hold onto or grab while performing balance exercises.
Your physical therapist can give you suggestions on improving balance while remaining safe.
Plyometric exercises may include:
Plyometric exercise can place high levels of stress through your knees and lower extremities.
You must confirm you progress slowly and properly with plyometric exercise.
This can help you recover fully and get back to an enjoyable (and beneficial) exercise activity.
One part of your rehab program may be working on getting back to full function.
It can prevent you from enjoying your normal activities at home and work.
Working with a physical therapist is a great way to safely regain mobility and function.
That way, it’s possible for you to quickly return to your prior level of function.
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.Patellar tendon tear.
ABIM Foundation Choosing Wisely.Physical therapy: Five treatments you probably don’t need.
2017;60(4):244-248. doi:10.1016/j.rehab.2016.10.003
