Rectus Femoris Tendinopathy

Abstract

Rectus femoris tendinopathies are not particularly frequent occurrences in sports traumatology. It is possible to observe their presence in sports activities requiring strong, repeated, and eccentric loading with maximal lengthening in lower limbs such as during sprinting and kicking. The symptoms show a gradual and progressive onset of pain and discomfort in the anterior aspect of the hip and are typically aggravated by exercise especially during jumping and running. Patient history and clinical evaluation, including direct palpation of the tendon and resisted muscle activation, are essential to make the appropriate diagnosis. Imaging is helpful in confirming diagnosis. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance provide valuable diagnostic information, useful for planning therapeutic strategies. Conservative treatment includes oral and topical anti-inflammatory drugs and physical therapy with a wide variety of modalities available. Surgical treatment is unnecessary in most cases; surgery may be a valuable option in selected patients who have failed 3-6 months of conservative treatment or in painful calcific tendinopathy.