How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Torn Patellar Tendon?

Patellar tendon ruptures are often caused by indulging in high-impact sports and activities, particularly football, basketball and volleyball. These sports involve lots of jumping that may weaken the patellar tendon over time, making it more likely to rupture. Volleyball players are especially prone to patellar tendonitis, a condition popularly known as “jumper’s knee.”

Activities that result in a sudden, blunt smack to the front of the knee may result in a torn patellar tendon, which includes jumping on the knee from a height and, sometimes, even in car accidents.

Some chronic conditions can weaken the patellar tendon and make it more likely to get torn, such as:

• Chronic renal failure
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
• Diabetes mellitus
• Metabolic diseases, such as gout, hyperparathyroidism

Additionally, knee joint surgeries, such as a total knee replacement, may result in injury to the patellar tendon and cause it to tear.

The long-term use of steroids has also been linked with the weakening of the patellar tendon.

It is difficult to walk and participate in daily activities if you have developed small or partial tears in the patellar tendon. Going even further, a complete tear may even result in disability.

When the patellar tendon ruptures, you most likely sensed the tear or heard a pop, however additional symptoms may include:

• Swelling and pain
• Inability to extend the knee
• An indentation at the bottom of your kneecap
• Bruising
• Tenderness
• Cramping
• Moving of the knee cap up to the thigh
• Difficulty walking due to the knee instability

A torn patellar tendon cannot heal itself unless specific measures are taken depending on the type of injury. For a complete patellar tendon tear, surgery and physical therapy are required to regain full knee function. For partial tears, physical therapy and braces are typically necessary.

Effective treatment of a torn patellar tendon improves your chances of restoring your range of motion and helps strengthen the surrounding tissues that support the knee joint.