Patellar Tendon Rupture
A patellar tendon rupture is a serious knee injury causing loss of movement and strength. Surgery and physiotherapy are essential for full recovery and return to activity.
What is a Patellar Tendon Rupture?
A patellar tendon rupture is a complete tear of the tendon below the kneecap, which connects the patella to the shin bone.
This tendon is critical for straightening the knee and enabling movements like walking, running, and jumping.
When it ruptures, the connection between the thigh muscles and lower leg is lost, making it difficult—or impossible—to straighten the knee.
If you are recovering from a tendon rupture in Singapore, ACE Physio Sports provides expert post-surgical rehabilitation.
How Does a Patellar Tendon Rupture Happen?
This injury typically occurs during high-force movements.
Common causes include:
- Sudden powerful contraction of the quadriceps
- Landing awkwardly from a jump
- High-impact sports (football, basketball, gym training)
- Direct trauma to the knee
The tendon is placed under extreme stress and tears completely.
Symptoms of Patellar Tendon Rupture
Symptoms are usually sudden and severe:
- Sharp pain below the kneecap
- A “snap” or tearing sensation
- Inability to straighten the knee
- Difficulty or inability to walk
- Knee giving way or instability
Other signs include:
- Swelling and inflammation
- Reduced range of motion
- Weakness in the leg
- Balance problems
Real search terms people use:
- “knee snapped and can’t straighten leg”
- “pain below kneecap can’t walk”
- “tendon tear knee symptoms”
- “knee giving way after injury”
What Should I Do?
⚠️ This is a medical emergency injury.
If you suspect a rupture:
✔ Go immediately to emergency care ✔ Avoid putting weight on the leg ✔ Use RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) ✔ Seek orthopaedic consultation
After surgery, begin physiotherapy as soon as advised.
For rehab in Singapore 👉 https://acephysiosport.com
What Shouldn’t I Do?
❌ Do not delay medical treatment ❌ Avoid walking on the injured leg ❌ Avoid heat, alcohol, or activity (first 48 hrs) ❌ Do not attempt self-treatment
Surgical Treatment
A complete rupture always requires surgery.
The procedure involves:
- Reattaching the tendon to the kneecap or tibia
- Using sutures, anchors, or grafts if needed
Early surgery improves recovery outcomes.
Physiotherapy After Patellar Tendon Rupture
Rehabilitation is critical and structured.
At ACE Physio Sports Singapore, your rehab includes:
1. Early Stage (Protection Phase)
- Pain and swelling control
- Gentle mobility exercises
- Protected weight-bearing
2. Restore Movement
- Gradual range of motion exercises
- Patella mobility work
3. Strength Building
- Quadriceps strengthening
- Hip and lower limb strengthening
4. Stability Training
- Balance and proprioception exercises
5. Functional Recovery
- Gait retraining
- Return to daily activities
6. Advanced Rehab
- Sport-specific training
- Strength and endurance work
Additional Treatments:
- Hydrotherapy
- Electrotherapy
- Taping
- Soft tissue therapy
Our goal is to restore full strength, mobility, and confidence in your knee.
Explore more 👉 https://acephysiosport.com
Recovery Timeline
- Initial recovery: 6–8 weeks
- Strength recovery: 3–4 months
- Full recovery: 6+ months
Recovery depends on rehab consistency and injury severity.
Long-Term Effects
With proper treatment:
✔ Return to daily activities ✔ Possible return to sports ✔ Improved strength and stability
Without proper rehab:
❌ Persistent weakness ❌ Reduced knee function ❌ Risk of re-injury ❌ Limited return to sport
Why Choose ACE Physio Sports
At ACE Physio Sports, we specialise in post-surgical knee rehabilitation in Singapore.
✔ Structured rehab protocols ✔ Close collaboration with surgeons ✔ Progressive recovery plans ✔ Focus on long-term function
If you’ve had knee surgery, we’ll guide you step-by-step to full recovery.
Learn more 👉 https://acephysiosport.com
Book Appointment
If you are looking for patellar tendon rupture physiotherapy in Singapore, ACE Physio Sports can help.
ACE Physio Sports is conveniently located near:
- East Coast Road
- Katong
- Marine Parade
- Joo Chiat
- Siglap
We help patients across East Singapore recover from injuries and pain with expert physiotherapy care.
📞 Call: +65 81535374 🌐 Book online: https://acephysiosport.com
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my knee hurt when I go up or down stairs?
Stair pain is a hallmark of many knee conditions, including Patellar Tendon Rupture. Stairs significantly increase the load through the knee joint and surrounding structures. Physiotherapy identifies where the weakness or irritation lies and targets it with specific exercises.
My knee swells after activity — is that serious?
Post-activity swelling in Patellar Tendon Rupture indicates the knee is being irritated beyond its current tolerance. Physiotherapy can reduce inflammation, help modify your activity load, and progressively build the knee's capacity to handle more demand.
Can I still exercise with Patellar Tendon Rupture?
Yes — low-impact exercise like swimming, cycling, and targeted strength training is usually fine and beneficial. Your physiotherapist will identify which activities are appropriate and create a programme that builds knee strength without aggravating your condition.
Ready to start your recovery?
Our specialist physiotherapists are here to help. Book a consultation today.
Book an Appointment