• Sudden pain above the kneecap
• Feeling or hearing a pop
• Swelling around the knee
• Bruising around the knee or lower thigh
• Weakness in the leg
• Trouble straightening the knee
• Difficulty walking
• Trouble climbing stairs

• A Quadriceps Tendon Rupture usually feels like a sudden sharp pain just above the kneecap. Many people feel or hear a pop when the injury happens. The knee may become swollen and weak and it may be difficult or impossible to straighten the leg. Walking running climbing stairs or getting up from a chair can become very difficult

• Landing awkwardly from a jump
• Sudden change in direction while running
• Trying to catch yourself during a fall
• Strong force through the knee while the quadriceps are contracting
• Sports involving jumping sprinting or explosive movements

• Did I feel a pop above my kneecap?
• Do I have trouble straightening my knee?
• Is my knee swollen after the injury?
• Does my leg feel weak or unstable?
• Did the injury happen while jumping running or falling?
• Is it difficult to walk or climb stairs?
• Does the area above my kneecap hurt when touched?

Educational only — not a medical diagnosis.

1. 1Rest your leg and avoid sports
2. 2Use ice 15 to 20 minutes
3. 3Keep your leg raised when resting
4. 4Avoid running jumping and squatting
5. 5Use gentle movement if pain allows
6. 6Follow medical advice before returning to sports

• You cannot straighten your knee
• You cannot walk normally
• Severe swelling develops quickly
• Your knee repeatedly gives out

• Rest your leg and avoid sports
• Use ice 15 to 20 minutes
• Follow your rehab program carefully
• Return to sports slowly when cleared