Patella Tendon Tear

The patella tendon connects the patella (knee cap) to the shin bone (tibia) and plays an important role of day to day activities such as walking and balance as well as during athletics for cutting, pivoting and changing direction. A patella tendon tear often occurs as the result of a traumatic injury, such as a direct blow or a sudden overexertion of the tendon.  However, patella tendon tears can be caused due to wearing of the tendon over time.

A patella tendon tear can vary in severity as the ligament can either be partially torn or completely torn.

Common symptoms of patella tendon tears include the following:

• Buckling or giving away of the knee when walking
• Pain
• Bruising
• Tenderness

Patients who sustained an injury and are experiencing symptoms are advised to make an appointment with one of the Fellowship Trained and Board Certified Knee Specialists at Olympia Orthopaedic Associates as soon as possible. Diagnosing and treating the injury early helps patient recover quickly and get back to an active and healthy lifestyle.

Partial Patella Tendon tears may be effectively treated using nonsurgical treatment options. The specialists at Olympia Orthopaedics prescribe customized treatment plans that include the following:

• Immobilization
• Physical therapy
• Pain and anti-inflammatory medications

Complete patella tendon repairs may require surgical intervention. The Knee Specialists at Olympia Orthopaedic Associates utilize the latest advancement in Arthroscopic Patella Tendon Repair Surgery to restore strength and stability to the knee.