Chondromalacia Patellae

Introduction:

Chondromalacia Patellae, often referred to as “Runner’s Knee,” is a common condition characterized by the softening and breakdown of the cartilage on the underside of the kneecap(patella).This degeneration leads to irritation, inflammation, pain during movement.

Definition:

Chondromalacia Patellae is defined by the deterioration of the particular cartilage behind the kneecap. This cartilage normally provides a smooth, low-friction surface for the patella to glide over the femur during knee flexion and extension.

Etiology:

The condition typically arises from: 

• Muscle Imbalances: Weakness in the thigh hamstrings and quadriceps can affect the patella’s alignment.
• Patellar Maltracking( Misalignment): The kneecap does not track correctly within the femoral groove, causing excessive friction and wear.
• Overuse and Repetitive stress: Frequent high- impact activities like running, repetitive knelling, jumping or dancing.
• Anatomical Factors: Variations in knee structure (flat feet ,high arch  feet) can contribute to abnormal faces on the joint.
• Congenital Condition: poor alignment due to a congenital condition.

Clinical Features: 

Chondromalacia Patellae is often associated with the following clinical features:

• Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS):Chondromalacia is a common underlying cause of anterior knee pain, aften grouped under the broader term PFPS.
• Inflammation: Irritation within the knee joint can lead to localized inflammation.
• Degeneration of Cartilage: Visible softening, fissuring, swelling and tenderness of the patellar hyaline cartilage.
• Osteophyte formation: Osteophyte formation also occurs after 50%of the patellar articular surface exposed.

Signs & Symptoms:

Patient’s typically experience:

• Swelling or Effusion Fluid accumulation around the kneecap although less common.
• Dull, Aching Pain: Located behind or around the kneecap.
• Crepitus: A grinding, grating or cracking sound when bending the knee.
• “Theater Sign”: Pain after prolonged sitting with bent knees.

Treatment Options:

Treatment typically focuses on reducing symptoms and improving knee mechanics:

• RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation): Immediate management for acute or chronic pain and swelling.
• Physical Therapy: Strengthening the hip muscle and quadriceps to improve patellar tracking and stability.
• Activity Modification: Avoiding activities that exacerbate pain.
• Bracing or Taping: Braching can also be used for patient pre- and postoperatively. Taping the patella to influence its movement may provide some short- term relief, but the evidence is varied. A commonly used technique is “McConnell Taping “or Kinesiotaping.

Surgical Intervention: 

• Full Patellectomy: This method is only used when no other procedures are helpful, but a significant consequence is that the quadriceps will become weak.
• Chondrectomy: The success of this treatment depends on the severity of the cartilage damage.
• Drilling: Drilling is also a method that is frequently used to heal damaged cartilage.

Diet and Recovery Support

At Aaziban, we emphasize that recovery is not just about therapy—it’s also about nutrition. A joint-friendly diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, vitamin D, and antioxidant-rich fruits like berries and mud apple (sapodilla) helps reduce inflammation and supports cartilage repair naturally. A balanced, anti-inflammatory meal plan enhances recovery outcomes and strengthens overall joint health.

Conclusion:

Chondromalacia Patellae is a treatable condition. Early diagnosis and c conservative approach involving physical therapy, rest and activity modification are aften highly effective in relieving pain and preventing further cartilage damage.