A torn quadriceps tendon is a tear in the strong tissue connecting the thigh muscles to the kneecap, significantly impairing the ability to straighten the knee and bear weight. Surgery reattaches the tendon to the kneecap, aiming to restore normal function and stability. Recovery is gradual, requiring careful protection of the repair and progressive rehabilitation.
Initial Days and Weeks After Surgery
Immediately after quadriceps tendon surgery, managing pain and protecting the healing tendon are primary concerns. Pain is typically most significant during the first few days, managed with prescribed medications and consistent icing. Elevate the operative leg above heart level to reduce swelling, positioning pillows under the foot or ankle, not directly under the knee, to maintain extension.
Wound care is also important; keep surgical incisions clean and dry for about seven days to prevent infection, covering them with a waterproof dressing for showering. The knee will be immobilized in a brace, locked straight, to protect the repaired tendon from stress. This brace is worn continuously for several weeks. Early, gentle movements like ankle pumps are encouraged to promote circulation and prevent blood clots. Weight-bearing often begins with limited or non-weight-bearing, gradually progressing with crutches.
The Path Through Physical Therapy
Physical therapy (PT) is a cornerstone of recovery after quadriceps tendon surgery, guiding the knee’s return to function. A physical therapist helps protect the healing tendon while gradually restoring strength and mobility. PT often begins within 3-14 days after surgery.
Early therapy focuses on gentle exercises to regain range of motion without stressing the repair, such as passive knee flexion and heel slides. Strengthening exercises are introduced progressively, starting with isometric exercises like quadriceps sets, which involve tightening the thigh muscle without moving the joint. As healing advances, the therapist incorporates more active movements, including straight leg raises, mini squats, and eventually functional activities like step-ups and stationary biking. The brace may be gradually unlocked to allow increased knee bending, with specific range-of-motion goals. Adherence to the personalized therapy program is important for regaining full strength, flexibility, and preventing stiffness.
Milestones on Your Road to Recovery
Full recovery after quadriceps tendon surgery is a gradual process, with individual timelines varying based on injury severity and rehabilitation adherence. Most patients are off crutches and walking independently within about 4 weeks, though some may use them longer. Driving is typically allowed around 6 weeks, once pain medication is no longer needed and sufficient knee movement and control are regained.
For work, individuals with sedentary jobs may return within a few days to a week, while those with physically demanding occupations often require 4-6 months or longer. Light activities can usually be resumed within a few months, but a full return to strenuous activities or sports can take 6 to 12 months or more. The goal of rehabilitation is often to achieve 85-90% strength in the injured leg compared to the uninjured one. Rushing the process can jeopardize the repair and lead to setbacks.
When to Contact Your Doctor
Contact your doctor if you experience signs of infection, such as a fever over 101°F, increased redness around the incision, warmth, or pus-like drainage. While some swelling and mild drainage are expected, continuous or excessive bleeding from the incision should also be reported.
Also report sudden, severe, or worsening pain not relieved by medication. Signs of a deep vein thrombosis (DVT), such as new or increasing pain, swelling, or tenderness in your calf, require immediate attention. Numbness or tingling in the leg or foot, a change in foot or ankle color, or an inability to move your toes should also be reported promptly. Any concerns about the brace, loose sutures, or an open incision also warrant a call to your doctor.