Quadriceps Muscle Strain or Tear
Anatomy
The quadriceps femoris (quadriceps extensor, or quads) consists of four muscles on the front of the thigh: the rectus femoris, the vastus medialis, the vastus lateralis, and the vastus intermedius. These muscles contain predominantly type II (fast-twitch) muscle fibres. Its main action is to extend or straighten the knee.
Mechanism of Injury
- Overstretching or forceful contraction such as in sprinting jumping.
- The rectus femoris muscle is particularly susceptible to injury as it passes over two joints, the hip and the knee.
Symptoms
- A stab of intense pain as the injury occurs during activity.
- The muscle may go into spasm.
- Intense tenderness over the injured area.
- Swelling may occur.
- Pain can be elicited by contracting the muscle against resistance.
- A defect can be felt in the muscle in cases of a complete or major partial tear.
Treatment
Please consult with your medical professional for a complete diagnosis and treatment plan.