Post-Operative Rehabilitation Following Complete Quadriceps Tendon Rupture: A Case Report

Abstract

Aims: The complete quadriceps tendon rupture is an uncommon injury, and there is limited data regarding the therapeutic intervention and its clinical outcomes. This case report describes a post-op rehabilitation of complete quadriceps tendon rupture for a fast and safe return to normal daily living and work and attempts to fill the gap apparent in the existing literature. Case Presentation: The patient was a middle-aged man and had a complete rupture of the right quadriceps as a result of a sudden fall with hyperflexion of the knee. On examination, his right knee was swollen, with tenderness over the distal thigh, and he was unable to straighten it and ambulate. The plain radiograph revealed patella baja; thus, magnetic resonance imaging was ordered, which confirmed complete rupture of the quadriceps. It was surgically repaired and consequently referred to a post-operative physiotherapy programme to reach potential functional outcomes. The well-structured postoperative physiotherapy was progressed gradually for returning to the routine work at 8 weeks, complete active range of motion at 16 weeks, and getting back to work at 24 weeks. Discussion: This case report supports the effectiveness of a well-structured rehabilitation exercise programme that focuses on joint mobility, muscular flexibility, and strengthening in order to achieve a potential functional capacity that promotes the patient’s optimal health and socioeconomic well-being with the consistent limited complete quadriceps rupture rehabilitation current evidence. Conclusion: This study recommends that early surgical intervention followed by a well-structured postoperative rehabilitation programme aids in getting a full advantage of functional outcomes and safe return to work. Also, it emphasises the importance of further research to establish the clinical relevance of the long-term impact of these interventions and validation, as a single case report is not sufficient for establishing broad conclusions.