Recovery from patellar tendon rupture

The patellar tendon connects the kneecap to the shinbone and helps straighten the knee. A complete rupture can make standing, walking and lifting the leg difficult. Some people need tendon repair surgery, while selected injuries may be managed with structured immobilisation. The plan depends on the tear, examination findings, treatment choice and overall health.

Early recovery commonly focuses on keeping the repair or injured tissue protected and controlling swelling. Knee movement and weight bearing are increased in stages. Stiffness, weakness and altered walking can persist while the thigh muscles regain control.

Follow the brace, weight-bearing and wound-care instructions exactly. Attend scheduled reviews so the knee angle, strength and tendon healing can be checked. Rehabilitation may progress from gentle movement to walking practice, thigh activation, balance work and functional strengthening. Do not add running, jumping, deep squats or heavy resistance until your clinician clears them. Post-operative rehabilitation and tendon repair surgery may help explain the usual care pathway.

Seek prompt medical advice for increasing redness, drainage, fever, rapidly worsening swelling, new calf pain, chest symptoms, loss of movement or a sudden giving-way sensation. A new fall or a sharp pop during rehabilitation should also be reported, especially if you can no longer lift the leg as before.

Ask when you may bear more weight, adjust the brace, drive, return to work, start resistance training and resume sport. Ask which symptoms suggest a wound problem, blood clot or tendon re-injury, and how progress will be measured at each review.