Extensor Mechanism Injury

Overview

Extensor mechanism injuries affect the structures responsible for extending the knee, including the quadriceps tendon, patella, and patellar tendon. These injuries can result from trauma, overuse, or degenerative conditions, significantly impairing mobility and quality of life. In India, where physical activity and labour-intensive tasks are common, timely diagnosis and treatment of such injuries are essential to prevent long-term complications.

Introduction

The extensor mechanism of the knee plays a critical role in activities such as walking, running, and climbing stairs. It involves a coordinated action of the quadriceps muscles, patella, and patellar tendon to extend the knee joint. An injury to this mechanism can range from a mild strain to complete rupture, leading to pain, instability, and functional limitations. These injuries are frequently seen in athletes, elderly individuals with degenerative changes, and those engaged in physically demanding professions.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of extensor mechanism injuries include:
– Sudden or gradual onset of knee pain, particularly around the patella.
– Swelling or bruising around the knee joint.
– Difficulty straightening the knee or walking.
– Tenderness or pain while touching the affected area.
– A noticeable gap or defect in the tendon (in case of rupture).
– Weakness or inability to bear weight on the affected leg.

Causes

Extensor mechanism injuries can arise from several factors:
– Trauma: A direct blow or a fall on a flexed knee can damage the extensor mechanism.
– Overuse: Repetitive stress from sports like running or jumping can lead to tendinitis or partial tears.
– Degenerative Conditions: Aging or chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can weaken tendons and make them susceptible to injuries.
– Surgical Complications: Previous knee surgeries may increase the risk of extensor mechanism disruptions.

Treatment

Treatment for extensor mechanism injuries depends on the severity of the injury:

– Non-Surgical Management:
– Rest, ice, and compression to reduce pain and swelling.
– Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles and improve joint stability.
– Bracing or immobilization to allow healing in partial tears.

– Surgical Intervention:
– Tendon repair or reconstruction for complete ruptures.
– Patellar stabilization procedures in case of fractures or dislocations.
– Arthroscopic procedures for removing damaged tissue or addressing chronic issues.

– Rehabilitation:
– Post-treatment physiotherapy is essential to restore strength, mobility, and function.
– Progressive exercises under expert guidance help prevent re-injury.

Prevention and Risk Factors

Risk Factors:

– Participation in high-impact sports like basketball or volleyball.
– Advanced age or degenerative joint diseases.
– Inadequate warm-up or improper training techniques.
– Obesity, which increases stress on the knee joint.

Prevention Tips:

– Engage in regular strength training and flexibility exercises.
– Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on the knees.
– Use appropriate footwear and protective gear during sports.
– Avoid sudden increases in physical activity intensity.
– Seek early treatment for knee pain or discomfort to prevent worsening.

Insights from Sancheti Hospital

Sancheti Hospital, renowned for its expertise in orthopaedic care, offers state-of-the-art diagnosis and treatment for extensor mechanism injuries. Our multidisciplinary team of orthopaedic surgeons, physiotherapists, and sports medicine specialists provides individualized care, ensuring optimal recovery. Leveraging advanced surgical techniques and cutting-edge rehabilitation programs, we help patients regain strength, mobility, and confidence.

At Sancheti, we prioritize patient education, emphasizing injury prevention and long-term joint health. For athletes and active individuals, our sports injury clinics focus on performance enhancement and injury mitigation.