Quad pain can be a tricky symptom. Often with pain in this area, you may assume you have a certain injury. But there are several different injuries and conditions that may be the true cause of your quad pain. Continue reading to get to the bottom of the many different types of ailments that can cause quad pain, including strains and tears.
Quad Strain
Quadriceps strains occur when the muscle fibers tear either due to excessive force or strain, or sudden movements or changes in direction. These strains, like all muscle strains, are categorized by Grades 1, 2, or 3, depending on the severity. Grades 1 and 2 range mild to moderate, with little to no loss of function, microtears to the fibers, along with some discomfort and possible swelling.
Grade 3 strain is the most severe, with the muscle fibers completely tearing causing the quadriceps muscle to be torn in two. This is followed by loss of function, swelling, and bruising to the area, as well as difficulty walking or performing activities.
Quadriceps Tear
The quadriceps tendon connects the quad muscles to the patella, or kneecap. Like a quad strain, a quadriceps tendon tear (also known as a tendon rupture) occurs when excessive force or tension is placed on the tendon or when awkward movements occur. These actions can cause the tendon tissues to tear.
Quad tendon tears happen either partially, or completely. Partial tears may be managed more conservatively with rest or physical therapy. Complete tears are highly debilitating, and can limit movement or range of motion, such as bending or straightening your leg. Complete tears often require surgery to fix, as well as rehab after to regain strength and mobility. Tendon tears can also cause inflammation or swelling in the area, particularly near the lower quad area where the tendon connects to the knee.
How Do These Occur?
Both quadriceps strains and tendon tears can occur with excessive force to the area, as well as sudden movements or changes in direction. Both injuries are seen usually in those who participate in sports such as soccer, basketball, or football.
Additionally, these injuries are more susceptible to those who may not be adequately warming up before exercise. When muscles aren’t properly activated before working out, as well as cooled down, this can increase the risk of injury or strain.
To learn more about quad strains, watch as Airrosti’s Ally Jackson, DC, explains more of the common causes and signs, and how Airrosti approaches treatment.
Airrosti: One-Stop Shop for Quad Pain
The best way to avoid quad injuries is to stay one step ahead of them and keep your quads strong by strengthening and stretching those muscles out! However, if you are experiencing quadriceps pain but can’t seem to alleviate the pain on your own, schedule a visit to Airrosti!
At Airrosti, our Providers are highly trained at diagnosing and treating quad injuries through hands-on manual therapy and exercises to strengthen weak and tight muscles to treat them directly at their source. Our Providers can determine the root cause of your pain and will create a personalized treatment plan for your condition and provide resources to help you continue your recovery at home so you can get back to a pain free life!
For more information, call (800) 404-6050.
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