Chondromalacia Patella

The disorder involving the softening and wearing away of the cartilage beneath the kneecap, or patella is called Chondromalacia patella. It also known as Patellofemoral syndrome.

Causes

This disease often strikes teenagers and young adults and is believed to be caused by excessive use of the joint, injury, and a forceful blow to the knee. Females are more prone to acquiring this syndrome. One of the causes is incorrect kneecap position common in a majority of young sufferers.

Chondromalacia patella may signal the onset of kneecap arthritis which usually afflicts people of advanced age. Those at risk of acquiring the disease are those who have a history of dislocations, fractures, or other kneecap injuries.

Symptoms of Chondromalacia patella

• soreness of the knee


• anterior knee pain aggravated by sitting for long periods of time


• knee pain exacerbated by going up the stairs or rising from a sitting position


• occurrence of a grating and grinding sensation every time the knee is extended

Exams and Tests to Determine Chondromalacia patella

The doctor will undertake a thorough physical examination which includes assessing whether the knee is sore, mildly swollen, and whether the kneecap is misaligned with the femur or thigh bone.

The doctor will also request you to straighten your knee to determine if there is any grinding or grating sensations directly below the kneecap. Pressure on this area while the leg is extended may cause considerable pain.

Expect to have special x-rays taken to determine whether the kneecap exhibits any signs of sloping or arthritis.

Treatment for Chondromalacia patella

Treatment for Chondromalacia patella may include:

• temporary rest


• non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief, like ibuprofen, naproxen or aspirin


• physical therapy (quadriceps strengthening, hamstring stretching)


• limiting participation in sports and other strenuous activities


• arthroscopic or open surgery (final recourse when the patella cannot be corrected with physical therapy)

Outlook (Prognosis) for Chondromalacia patella

Recovery from this disorder normally takes place after extensive physical therapy and taking NSAIDs. However, if the condition does not improve, surgery has been found to be beneficial in 60 to 90% of all cases.

Possible Complications

• failure of physical therapy and NSAIDs use to effect pain relief


• surgical complications include infection, absence of pain relief, and worsened pain

Call Your Doctor

It is recommended to visit your primary healthcare provider when you start to experience symptoms of Chondromalacia patella.

Preventing Chondromalacia patella

• avoidance of joint trauma or stress


• maintain strong and flexible leg muscles (quadriceps and hamstrings)