The patella tendon attaches the kneecap to the top of the tibia. This tendon is vital for running and jumping, allowing the knee to straighten and bend. Damage to the patella tendon can cause knee pain and inflammation, a condition called patella tendonitis, or jumper’s knee. When a partial or complete tear occurs in the patella tendon, this is a more serious injury. Our knee specialist, Dr. Farzin Kabaei, at Robotic Hip and Knee Replacement LA, offers patella tendon tear treatment at our orthopedic clinic in Los Angeles.

Causes and Symptoms of Patella Tendon Ruptures

Patella tendon tears or ruptures can occur from a single injury, such as a blow to the knee or tearing the tendon when landing on a hard surface from a high jump. Often, the tendon has already been weakened by strains from repetitive use. Athletes in running or jumping sports may have existing jumper’s knee that can contribute to a patella tendon tear. Most patella tendon tears are partial, separating some fibers within the tendon. This can cause pain and weakness when straightening the leg. A complete patella tendon rupture is more severe and debilitating with the following symptoms:

• Severe anterior knee pain (front of the knee)
• Kneecap moves upwards
• An indentation below the knee
• Inability to straighten the leg
• Bruising and swelling below the knee
• Popping sound or sensation when the injury occurs

Partial patella tendon tear treatment can include conservative therapies, like rest, ice, a knee brace and physical therapy. Surgery is not usually required unless conservative treatments are ineffective. Complete patella tendon ruptures or tears do require surgical repair, as the leg cannot straighten without reattaching the tendon to the patella.

If you suffer a patella tendon tear or rupture, Dr. Kabaei offers advanced treatment options at our state-of-the-art orthopedic clinic in Beverly Hills. Contact us at Robotic Hip and Knee Replacement LA to schedule an exam and consultation with Dr. Kabaei to explore your patella tendon tear treatment options.