Inflammation of the Rectus Femoris tendon

What is the rectus femoris muscle?

The rectus femoris muscle is one of quadriceps muscles. It goes from the hip to the knee and can be used to straighten the knee or lift the knee up. This muscle can rupture or become inflamed at the upper part where the muscle attaches to the hip. The main cause of this is overuse through kicking or explosive movements as in sprint starts.

Symptoms of an inflammed rectus femoris include:

• Pain at the front of the hip during and after exercise.
• Pain when you press in on the muscle at the top.
• Pain when you lift the knee up or straighten the knee against resistance. A straight leg raise is also likely to cause pain.

What can the athlete do?

• Rest. This is important.
• Apply cold therapy
• Maintain your fitness by cycling if this can be done pain free.
• See a sports injury professional.

What can a sports injury specialist or doctor do?

• Prescribe anti-inflammatory medication e.g. ibuprofen.
• Use ultrasound or laser treatment.
• Use sports massage techniques.
• Prescribe a full rehabilitation programme to avoid re-injury.

Rehabilitation >>