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.

 

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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.