Quadriceps muscle injuries in athletes: a narrative review

The quadriceps muscles are a large group of 4 muscles in the anterior compartment of the thigh, comprising the rectus femoris, vastus medialis, vastus intermedius, and vastus lateralis, which in combination act as the primary extensors of the knee joint. The rectus femoris is also responsible for hip joint flexion. Quadriceps muscle injuries are frequently encountered in sports and athletic activities and present a significant challenge in the realm of sports medicine, impacting athletes across various disciplines and levels of competition. A spectrum of sporting injuries and imaging findings can affect this muscle group, including strains and tears, avulsions, contusions, degloving injuries, and exercise-related signal abnormalities. A thorough understanding of these various pathologies and imaging features is crucial to guide appropriate diagnosis, management, and rehabilitation, as well as ensure safe and prompt return to play, minimize risk of re-injury or long-term adverse sequelae, optimize performance, and improve career longevity of these athletes. This comprehensive review article aims to review the unique anatomy of the quadriceps muscle group and integrate current knowledge of the various forms of sporting injuries affecting it, with a specific emphasis on the imaging features.