prickly pear, prickly pear cactus(noun) cacti having spiny flat joints and oval fruit that is edible in some species; often used as food for stock. Synonyms: prickly pear, prickly pear cactus. prickly pear(noun) round or pear-shaped spiny fruit of any of various prickly pear cacti.
The quadriceps and patellar tendons can be stretched and torn. Although anyone can injure these tendons, tears are more common among middle-aged people who play running or jumping sports. Falls, direct force to the front of the knee, and landing awkwardly from a jump are common causes of knee tendon injuries.
Basically, any physical activity or sport requires an intact patellar tendon. Patellar tendon tears can be either partial or complete. When there is a complete tear, the patellar tendon separates from the kneecap and the knee cannot be straightened. Athletes tend to overexert themselves during play and when too much body weight or force is placed on the knee, the patellar tendon can rupture or tear.