Signs of a Ruptured Tendon

• Tendon ruptures are often associated with weightlifting. Jonathan Kirn/Photodisc/Getty Images

  Tendons attach muscles to bones and can rupture due to a variety of reasons. Steroids injected into tendons can cause a rupture. Conditions such as gout, hyperparathyroidism and having type O blood can all cause tendons to rupture, though the most common cause is physical injury, often due to weightlifting or sports. Symptoms vary depending upon the part of the body injured. The most common tendon ruptures occur in the biceps, quadriceps and Achilles tendon, according to WebMD.

General Symptoms

• The sound or sensation of a loud pop is often associated with a tendon rupture. You may experience severe pain and swelling. Rapid bruising may also occur. The afflicted area may become weak or immobile.

Biceps

• The biceps proximal tendon is located at the top of the shoulder. An individual suffering from a ruptured proximal tendon may hear or feel a snap at the top of the shoulder and will be unable to raise the affected arm to the side with the palm up. Bruising, pain and tenderness will occur at the site of injury. A bulge may appear above the elbow, as well as a dent near the shoulder, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS).

Quadriceps Tendon

• Quadriceps tendons connect the quad muscles in the front of the leg with the knee. The patellar tendon is located above the kneecap. An individual suffering from a ruptured quadriceps tendon may hear or feel a snap above the kneecap. An indentation may form above the kneecap. Bruising may develop rapidly, and the area may be tender and painful. You may find it difficult to walk, and your knee may buckle if you place weight on your injured leg, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons. Your kneecap may sag, and you may find it difficult to straighten your knee.

Achilles Tendon

• The Achilles tendon is located at the back of the foot above the heel. The tendon connects the calf muscle to the heel. An individual suffering from a ruptured Achilles tendon may hear or feel a snap or pop in the back of the leg above the heel. Pain, often severe, usually follows. Swelling above the heel will occur, and you may find it difficult to bend your foot downward. You will also be unable to stand on tiptoes with the affected leg.