Quadriceps tendinosis

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Quadriceps tendinopathy refers to reactive inflammatory changes of the quadriceps tendon. It usually occurs at the insertion of the quadriceps at the proximal pole of the patella. They can occur with chronic overuse and overloading due to jumping and running activities.

Clinical presentation

The patient will present with pain and tenderness at the superior pole of the patella, sometimes weakness on resisted quadriceps extension.

Radiographic features

Ultrasound

Tendinopathy associated with symptoms has a higher rate of tendon hypoechogenicities, hyperechogenicities and vascularization, with tendon appearing thicker and with a greater cross-sectional diameter.

Treatment and prognosis

It is most commonly initially treated non-operatively with rest, physical therapy activity modification .

Complications

Some patients may be at increased risk of quadriceps tendon rupture .