CALL US +(1) 800 741 5716

CALL US +(1) 800 741 5716

Currency

 

Trigger Points - Stretching the Quadricep Muscles

 

 

Inflammation of the quadriceps tendon can be a result of repetitive stress to the quadriceps or excessive stress before the muscle is conditioned

Minor tears may occur in the tendon when it is stretched while subjected to loading. Pain just above the patella (kneecap), especially when extending (straightening) the knee, usually accompanies this injury.

Cause of injury

Repetitive stress to the tendon, e.g. running or jumping. Repetitive acceleration and deceleration, e.g. hurdling or football. Untreated injury to the quadriceps.

 

Quadriceps Trigger Points

 

Signs and symptoms

Pain just above the patella. Jumping, running, kneeling or walking down stairs may aggravate the pain.

Complications if left unattended

The quadriceps muscles may become stiff and shortened and the tendon will become weak if left untreated. This could lead to a rupture of the tendon. A change in gait or landing form in the case of hurdlers can lead to other injuries as well.

 

Quadriceps Trigger Points

 

Immediate treatment

Rest and ice. Anti-inflammatory medication. Training modification.

Rehabilitation and prevention

Rehabilitation should include stretching and strengthening exercises for the quadriceps. Activities such as swimming can be helpful to reduce the stress on the tendon during rehabilitation.

Return to a normal activity schedule should be delayed until pain subsides completely and strength is restored. Keeping the quadriceps flexible and strong will help prevent this condition. Even healthy quadriceps tend to be "loaded" with trigger points, and trigger therapy is a must for both prevention and rehabilitation (see below).

Long-term prognosis

A full recovery with no long-term disability or lingering effects can be expected in most cases of tendinitis. 

 

Quadriceps Trigger Point Therapy

 

Trigger Points

Trigger points in the quadriceps are incredibly common and in the most part ignored as these powerful and robust muscles continue on with their daily work. Over time trigger points in the quads may lead to a number of complications elsewhere in the body.

When they become active, pain from trigger points in the quads involves a deep toothache-like pain (vastus medialis) in the knee joint, or on the lateral or medial aspect of the thigh, including the knee.

In addition to being a contributing factor in quadriceps strains, these trigger points are likely to become active immediately following any injury to the quadriceps, as part of the body's protect and defend mechanism. Failure to address these trigger points may prolong the recovery period and create additional complications further down the line.

   

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

This trigger point therapy blog is intended to be used for information purposes only and is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment or to substitute for a medical diagnosis and/or treatment rendered or prescribed by a physician or competent healthcare professional. This information is designed as educational material, but should not be taken as a recommendation for treatment of any particular person or patient. Always consult your physician if you think you need treatment or if you feel unwell. 

 

Find a Trigger Point Therapist

 

 

 

Digital Health Awards  

 

 

 

 

 

   

NAT Global Campus

TRY FREE FOR 7 DAYS

Streaming online education for Rehabilitation and Fitness Professionals

1000+ hours of top quality films and courses.

New courses added every month.

All plans include unlimited access to online CE/CPD courses, webinars, live workshops, and events.

*Credit or Debit card required.

trusted by
Myofascial Expert Online course
accredited continuing education

Myofascial Expert

$99.95

Dry Needling for Trigger Point Release
accredited continuing education

IMS/Trigger Point Dry Needling

$179.95

Pregnancy Massage Online Course
accredited continuing education

Pregnancy Massage

$59.95

Massage Cupping Course
accredited continuing education

Massage Cupping Diploma

$295.00

1 / 4
CE Accredited Courses NAT Global Campus
CE Accredited Courses NAT Global Campus