What is Chondromalacia Patella?

The knee is the largest and one of the most complex joints in the human body. The boney structures of the knee consist of the patella (knee cap), Femur (thigh bone), Tibia and Fibula (lower leg bones). The patella glides with knee flexion and extension within the trochlear groove. Gliding of this area is accomplished through articular cartilage under the patella. Articular cartilage is the protective covering over the ends of the bones. Degeneration of this cartilage is called chondromalacia. This allows the joint to glide permitting fluid motion during active and passive activities.

Chondromalacia patella symptoms can be the results of chronic repetitive trauma or the results of an acute trauma in young adults/children. Terms such as movie goer’s knee are commonly used.

Signs and Symptoms

Signs and Symptoms are located within the front or anterior aspect of the knee commonly associated with a dull ache overlying the patella (knee cap). Grinding or crunching can be felt. Pain typically begins gradually and as activity continues symptoms worsen. As they worsen the dull ache can become sharp. Squatting, lunging, running and jumping cause repetitive stress to this area creating unwanted inflammation and pain. The inflammation is due to the softening of the articular cartilage beneath the patella and within the groove of the trochlea.