The patella is the flat, round bone that is palpable at the front of the knee. It articulates with the femur and the tendon of the quadriceps muscle of the leg is included.
When any of these three structures (tendon, patella and femur) is altered, continuous pain appears in the anterior zone of the knee and sensation of rubbing when flexing the leg.
The diagnosis is based on a correct physical exploration and tests of image like radiography and/or an ultrasound of the knee.
The treatment must correct the cause that triggered it to avoid prolonging the symptoms. Pain and inflammation will be controlled with analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs. Therapies of cold and heat can favor the recovery.
If the symptoms described above are present, it is advisable to visit the orthopedic surgeon to confirm the diagnosis and start treatment early.
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