Health Library

Chondromalacia patella is a softening or wearing away of the articular cartilage on the undersurface of the patella, more commonly known as the kneecap. Articular cartilage cushions the femur (thighbone) and tibia (shinbone) where they meet in the knee, allowing them to move freely and easily. But, when the articular cartilage softens or wears away, pain and inflammation result.

Treatment is done at home. Surgery may be needed in rare cases.

Chondromalacia of the Knee

Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Chondromalacia patella is caused by repetitive motion and misalignment of the kneecap.

This can occur due to:

• Birth defect in knee alignment
• Weak quadriceps
• Muscle strength imbalance between the inside and outside of the thigh
• Direct trauma

Chondromalacia patella is more common in adolescence and young adulthood. Other factors that increase your risk of chondromalacia patella include:

• Participation in activities like running, skiing, cycling, or soccer that put repeated pressure on the patellofemoral joint
• Knock-knee abnormality of the leg

Symptoms may include

• Acute or chronic knee pain that worsens slowly over time
• A popping or cracking sound as the knee is flexed and extended
• Increased pain when climbing stairs, squatting, kneeling, or running
• Pain and stiffness in the knee after it is flexed for a long period of time

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Tests may include:

• X-ray
• MRI
• Arthroscopy, rarely needed, but used to see the internal structure of the knee

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Options include:

To reduce your chances of chondromalacia patella, take these steps:

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce stress on your knees.
• Properly warm up before excersing or doing any physical activity.
• Maintain proper strength by exercising the quadriceps, calf muscles, and hamstring muscles.
• Use proper footwear for your sport. You may need orthotic support to help correct misalignment.
• Slowly increase activity to avoid stress on the knee.
• Use proper form and technique for any sport.