I don't think I've gotten into the WNBA. With a limited amount of time, and other sports to watch, I think I've seen maybe part of one or two WNBA games. Still, these women are professional athletes, and their injuries hurt just as much.

For instance, DeMya Walker of the Sacramento Monarchs is out for the season following a patellar tendon tear. This is nasty injury, and one that sidelines many basketball players. The report indicates she suffered from a sprain in her right knee prior to this. I am not sure if they are related, but it's not too much to think they are.

What is a torn patellar tendon? The patellar tendon is a large tendon that runs from the bottom of your quadriceps to the top of your shin bone. Yep, the knee is between the two. The patellar tendon's function is to allow your knee to flex open and close. This is called knee extension.

What are the symptoms of a torn patellar tendon? Pain is a big one with swelling. The biggest tip off that you've torn your patellar tendon is you inability to extend you knee. If you can extend your knee with a torn patellar tendon you'll be in agony. An MRI or xray can confirm the injury. In most torn patellar tendon injuries the actual tendon rips apart from the bone anchor. Yeah, it's not a pleasant thought. 

What is the treatment for a torn patellar tendon? Surgery. If you'r elucky enough to have a very small partial tear you can heal with rest and limiting stress on the tendon. Most people, though, will require surgery to reattach the patellar tendon. Since it's such a large tendon this surgery cannot be done arthroscopically. You have to be opened up. 

How long does it take a torn patellar tendon to heal? If it's a partial tear it may take one to two months depending on the damage. If you  have surgery you're looking at a six month timeframe. You'll need to allow the patellar tendon to recover, and then you start physical therapy to increase strength and flexibility.