How to self-assess quadriceps tendon injury

Under normal circumstances, quadriceps tendon injuries can be self-assessed by observing local symptoms, testing knee joint movement, checking muscle strength, pressing on the tendon area, and comparing both sides. These methods help in making a preliminary assessment of the injury. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. **Observe Local Symptoms**: Check whether there is swelling, bruising, or redness above the knee joint. Obvious swelling or bluish-purple discoloration of the skin usually indicates damage to the tendon and surrounding tissues, possibly accompanied by capillary rupture and bleeding.

2. **Test Knee Joint Movement**: Slowly attempt to straighten the knee joint. If full extension is not possible, or if significant pain or difficulty exerting force occurs above the knee during extension, this may indicate that the quadriceps tendon injury has affected the knee's ability to extend.

3. **Check Muscle Strength**: Sit on a chair with both feet flat on the ground, and try to lift the lower leg using the injured leg. If you feel weakness in the leg or experience severe pain above the knee when lifting, it suggests that the contraction function of the quadriceps tendon may be impaired, preventing normal force transmission.

4. **Press on the Tendon Area**: Gently press the quadriceps tendon located directly above the kneecap with your fingers. Sharp pain upon pressure, noticeable tenderness, or a palpable depression in the tendon may indicate tendon damage or tearing.

5. **Compare Both Sides**: Compare the injured leg with the healthy one, observing whether the muscle contours above the knee joints are symmetrical. If the quadriceps area on the injured side appears visibly thinner, muscles are looser, or there is slight displacement of the kneecap, this could result from muscle atrophy or imbalanced tendon tension following tendon injury.

After self-assessment, it is recommended to avoid strenuous activities, reduce weight-bearing on the knee joint, and avoid prolonged standing or walking. If an injury is suspected, appropriate cold compresses can be applied to relieve pain and swelling, and adequate rest should be ensured to promote tendon recovery.