1. Least Effective Exercises Slideshow
2. Dehydration Slideshow
3. First Aid Care and Pain Relief for Minor Injuries

Medical Author:

William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR

Dr. Shiel received a Bachelor of Science degree with honors from the University of Notre Dame. There he was involved in research in radiation biology and received the Huisking Scholarship. After graduating from St. Louis University School of Medicine, he completed his Internal Medicine residency and Rheumatology fellowship at the University of California, Irvine. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology.

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Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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All ruptured tendons, regardless of site, follow standard RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) home therapy procedure as you seek medical attention.

• Resting the affected extremity
• Ice application to the affected area
• Apply ice in a plastic bag wrapped in a towel or with a reusable cold pack wrapped in a towel.
• Applying ice directly to skin because may lead to further damage if left on for a prolonged period of time.
• Compression of the affected area to minimize swelling
• Apply compression by loosely wrapping the affected area with an ACE bandage.
• Be sure that the bandage does not cut off blood flow to the area in question.
• Elevation of the extremity if possible: Try to keep the area above the level of your heart to minimize swelling.
• It is recommended that the quadriceps rupture should be immobilized in an extended (straight knee) position and that biceps rupture should be immobilized in a sling with the elbow bent at 90 degrees.

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