Additional Information

Home Treatments:

If the pull is mild or moderate, it can usually be treated with conventonal care. This means properly resting the affected thigh for several weeks. Immediately after the injury has occurred, the thigh should be rested in an elevated positioned above the chest level and the painful area should be treated with ice packs 20 minutes at a time.

Professional Medical Treatments:

If the pull is suspected to be a severe overstretch that has resulted in tears or is a complete rupture, professional treatment will be needed. First, the extent of the damage will be identified via a MRI scan. If there is severe inflammation, cortisone injections may be administered and ultrasound therapy may be used to enhance healing. Complete ruptures will need surgery that will involve the reattachment of the quadriceps tendon or muscles.

Physical Therapy and Exercises:

If surgery is necessary, physical therapy will be needed post operation. This will start with static stretches done laying down. Ankle pumps, and leg raises will be performed to recovery the range of motion. Passive contraction and range of motion may also be performed with the hands on help of a physical therapist. This will progress to stretches done while standing and then to resistance and balance exercises using a resistance band and a yoga ball. nudebase.com

Exercise Techniques to Prevent Injury:

The best way to prevent a quadriceps pull from occurring is to maintain proper muscle balance between the hamstrings and the quadriceps. Exercises that strengthen both should be performed 2-3 times per week. They include squats, deadlifts, leg presses, leg curls and calf raises using weights.