How to Recover From a Patellar Tendon Tear

The patellar tendon is a ligament that attaches the bottom of the kneecap (patella), to the top of the shinbone (tibia).

This tendon can become injured during sports –for example, during an awkward landing that causes the knee being forcefully straightened, or due to a direct impact on the front of the knee.

Although very small tears will often respond well to nonsurgical treatment, in more serious cases, a patellar tendon tear will require surgery in order to restore full function to the leg. If left untreated, this type of injury can lead to weakness in the quadriceps –which can make it difficult to walk.

Recovery time after surgery will vary depending on a number of factors including the extent of the injury, as well as the patent’s age, associated injuries, and rehab compliance, but generally, the recovery time following surgery on the patellar tendon tear can be broken into three phases.

• The first phase involves strengthening the quadriceps and restoring the range of motion to the knee again. The stage will usually last 6-8 weeks.

• During the second stage, the brace will come off. This usually happens at around six weeks. Exercises will continue to be conservative.

• Phase three starts about four months after surgery. This stage focuses on restoring more function to the knee. There is usually a minimum of three months until a return to normal activities will be possible, and about 4-6 months until a return to sports can be made.

While a patellar tendon tear can be a major injury, in most cases, athletes can expect to resume their sport again, and will often be able to return to their previous level of play. In some case though, there can be a long-term weakness in the knee.

Due to the fact that the patellar tendon is vital for knee support, in the case of a patellar tendon tear, it’s important to find an orthopedic surgeon who is qualified to perform this type of surgery. The recovery process is also long, and extensive, and it’s also important to find a physical therapist that is experienced with these types of injuries –and who will be able to increase your chances of making a full recovery.

If you have sustained a sports injury or are experiencing pain in your knee, contact an orthopedic or sports medicine surgeon today. Blackstone Orthopedics provides sports medicine for Rhode Island, and their team of orthopedic surgeons specialize in knee surgery including surgery to repair patellar tendon tears.