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What is Chondromalacia Patella?
Chondromalacia, also known as runners knee, is a condition where the cartilage on the under surface of the patella (knee cap) deteriorates and softens. This results from degeneration of cartilage due to poor alignment of the kneecap (patella) as it slides over the lower end of the thighbone (femur). This process is sometimes referred to as patellofemoral syndrome.
This condition is common among young, athletic individuals, but may also occur in older adults who have arthritis of the knee.
Recovery Time
Chondromalacia Patellae usually settles down with medication and exercises but it is likely to take a few months. The sooner you get going with exercises, the sooner it will get better. Surgery is rarely recommended.Diagnosis
Your doctor will normally diagnose the condition from your description of symptoms and by carrying out some simple tests (looking at the movement of the knee, and putting pressure through it). Blood test or a standard knee x-ray, MRI scans are occasionally used to confirm diagnosis.FAQs prepared by doctor
Q1. What is Chondromalacia Patella?
Chondromalacia, also known as runners knee, is a condition where the cartilage on the under surface of the patella (knee cap) deteriorates and softens. This results from degeneration of cartilage due to poor alignment of the kneecap (patella) as it slides over the lower end of the thighbone (femur). This process is sometimes referred to as Patellofemoral syndrome.
This condition is common among young, athletic individuals, but may also occur in older adults who have arthritis of the knee.
Q2. What causes this condition?
Due to overuse of the joint, poor control of the muscles, Poor alignment of the kneecap or injury or flat feet there occurs rubbing of knee cap against the bone rather than gliding over them. This causes small tears in the cartilage which get inflamed and cause pain.
In older people, it may develop as part of the ageing process where there is wear and tear of cartilage in many joints.
Q3. What shall I do when I am suffering from this condition?
One shall protect one knee from over exertion. Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate, this helps reduce pain and swelling and can speed up recovery. Limit running, instead try swimming or cycling. If you want to run, ensure you are wearing good shoes with cushioned shoes, and stay off hard surfaces eg concrete. Use ice regularly, and before and after activity can help reduce swelling and pain. Regular oil massages with warm oil are known to be the best remedy for joint pain in knee.
Q4. When shall one consult a doctor?
Consult a doctor if you have acute or chronic knee pain that worsens slowly over time. When popping or cracking sound is felt while the knee is flexed and extended or pain is increased while climbing stairs, squatting, kneeling, or running one should meet a doctor. Pain and stiffness in the knee after it is flexed for a long period of time suggest serious condition.
Q5. I have a pain while running, is it chondromalacia patella?
Front knee pain or runners knee (Anterior Knee Pain or Patellofemoral Pain) is not always the same as chondromalacia patella. Though the symptoms are similar, there is no softening or damage to the cartilage. It is actually diagnosed by the radiological methods.
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