Chondromalacia

Chondromalacia

Chondromalacia, often referred to as "runner's knee," is a condition characterized by the softening and breakdown of the cartilage on the underside of the patella (kneecap). This condition can lead to pain and inflammation in the knee joint, particularly when the knee is in motion. Chondromalacia is a common cause of anterior knee pain, especially in young athletes and active individuals.

Pathophysiology

The patella is a small bone that sits in front of the knee joint and glides over the femur when the knee bends. The underside of the patella is covered with cartilage, which helps it move smoothly over the femur. In chondromalacia, this cartilage becomes softened and damaged, leading to pain and discomfort. The exact cause of chondromalacia is not always clear, but it is often associated with overuse, misalignment of the patella, or direct trauma to the knee.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of chondromalacia include:

• Pain in the front of the knee, especially when sitting with bent knees, squatting, or climbing stairs.
• A grinding or clicking sensation when the knee is in motion.
• Swelling around the knee joint.
• Tenderness when pressing on the patella.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of chondromalacia typically involves a physical examination and a review of the patient's medical history. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRI, may be used to assess the condition of the cartilage and rule out other potential causes of knee pain.

Treatment

Treatment for chondromalacia focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing further damage to the cartilage. Common treatment options include:

• Rest and activity modification to reduce stress on the knee.
• Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve patellar alignment.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation.
• In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to realign the patella or remove damaged cartilage.

Prevention

Preventive measures for chondromalacia include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on the knees.
• Wearing appropriate footwear that provides adequate support.
• Performing exercises to strengthen the quadriceps and hamstrings.
• Avoiding activities that put excessive strain on the knees.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with chondromalacia varies depending on the severity of the condition and the effectiveness of treatment. Many people experience significant improvement with conservative treatment, while others may require surgical intervention to achieve relief.

Also see

• Patellofemoral pain syndrome
• Osteoarthritis
• Knee joint
• Cartilage