Quadriceps strain occurs as a result of a tear in the fibers within the group of quadriceps, which consists of four large muscles that are located at the front of the thigh. These muscles aid in the ability of the knee to straighten properly and can be debilitating once injury has occurred. Those that are more susceptible to contracting quadriceps strain are athletes who participate in sports that incorporate quick accelerations of movement. It can also occur as a result of overexerting the quadriceps over the normal tension threshold, as well as enduring a full blown hit to the area. Also, those that have had quadriceps injuries in the past will increase the likelihood of repeated affliction.
Due to the varying degrees of quadriceps strain, three grades have been used to determine the severity of injury. Grade one thigh strain can result in a slight discomfort in walking, as well as tightness of the thigh and difficulty in straightening the knee. It is the least severe out of the three and can usually be cured in less than a month with an adequate amount of rest. Grade two thigh strain involves the partial tearing of fibers and can result in sharp pains during activity of the muscles, which makes the bending of the knee impossible. Grade three thigh strain is the most severe out of the three and involves the rupturing of muscle fibers. Those that are suffering are advised to seek immediate medical attention, as the injuries could become worse without adequate treatment. In this case, recovery can extend beyond three months if surgery is used.
For those that are suffering from quadriceps strain and would like a non-invasive route to recovery, the medical professionals at The Institute of Regenerative & Molecular Orthopedics offer the latest in orthopedic care with their use of stem cell therapy. Unlike traditional means to quadriceps strain recovery, stem cell therapy uses the stem cells and platelets that are separated from bone marrow that's extracted from the patient to be injected in to the area of injury. In addition to the platelets directing the stem cells to repair the damaged muscle fibers, the stem cells also help to stimulate the damaged cells to restore themselves. This form of orthopedic care can see results in under three months and is a sufficient means of repair.