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Definition
Chondromalacia patella is a softening or wearing away of the articular cartilage on the undersurface of the kneecap (patella). Articular cartilage is a smooth substance that covers the femur (thighbone), the tibia (shinbone), and the patella. These structures form the knee joint. The articular cartilage cushions these three bones and allows them to move freely and easily where they meet in the knee. But, when the articular cartilage softens or wears away, pain and inflammation result.
Chondromalacia of the Knee
2008 Nucleus Medical Art, Inc.
Causes
Chondromalacia patella occurs when:
- The kneecap doesnt move properly in the groove in the knee where it meets the femur.
- There is a muscle imbalance of the quadriceps (thigh muscles), which control the patella.
This can occur due to:
- Congenital conditionsA person is born with a misalignment of the kneecap.
- Weak quadricepsThese muscles assist in proper movement of the knee joint. Weak quadriceps may allow the patella to move out of alignment.
- Muscle imbalanceThis usually occurs when muscles on the outside of the thigh are stronger than muscles on the inside.
- Direct traumaA fall or blow to the kneecap that damages the articular cartilage on the patella or the femur.
- Repeated traumaThe result of running, jumping, skiing, or other activities that put repeated pressure on the kneecap.
Risk Factors
A risk factor is something that increases your chances of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors for chondromalacia patella include:
Age: adolescence and young adulthood Participation in activities that put repeated pressure on the patella-femoral joint: RunningSkiingCyclingSoccerKnock-knee abnormality of the leg Symptoms The main symptom of chondromalacia patella is pain. The pain occurs beneath and on both sides of the kneecap. Other characteristics of the pain: The pain can be acute or chronic.A popping or cracking sound is often heard as the knee is flexed and extended.Symptoms usually increase and worsen slowly, over a year or more. Symptoms are usually most pronounced when: Climbing stairsRunningSquattingKneelingDoing any activity that puts pressure on the kneePain and stiffness in the knee often occur when the patient is sitting with the knee bent for a long period of time (ie, a long car or plane ride). Diagnosis Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, as well as your exercise patterns, and perform a physical exam. Tests may include: An x-ray of the knee In rare cases, an arthroscopic exam of the knee TreatmentTreatments for chondromalacia patella include: Rest, Ice, Medication, and Bracing The first line of treatment for chondromalacia patella is to:
Decrease physical activity to allow the mechanical irritation and inflammation to subside.Ice the kneecap area for 15 minutes twice per day after physical activity and take anti-inflammatory medication (such as ibuprofen) to reduce inflammation and pain.Wear an elastic or neoprene brace on the knee to help keep the kneecap in proper alignment. Exercise Once pain and inflammation have subsided, exercise to strengthen the quadriceps (which control the knee) should begin. Exercise should be non-impact or non- or low- weight bearing, such as: SwimmingRiding a stationary bicycleUsing a cross-country ski machineIsometric or closed chain quadriceps strengthening exercises Surgery In most cases, surgery is not needed. But for younger patients who have continued pain, surgery may help. Surgical procedures include the following: Moving the quadriceps muscle insertion on the lower leg to improve alignmentReleasing the lateral thigh muscles and tightening the medial musclesSmoothing over the undersurface of the patella (kneecap) Prevention To help prevent chondromalacia patella, do the following: Do strengthening and stretching exercises for the: Quadriceps (thigh muscles)Calf muscles(muscles on the back of the lower leg)Hamstrings (muscles on the back of the thigh) Have footwear fitted with orthotic devices. These devices correct abnormal: Mechanics of the feet (particularly severe pronation)Musculoskeletal alignment in the legs and knees RESOURCES:
American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeonshttp://www.aaos.org National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseaseshttp://www.niams.nih.gov CANADIAN RESOURCES: Canadian Orthopaedic Associationhttp://www.coa-aco.org/ Canadian Orthopaedic Foundationhttp://www.canorth.org/ References: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. Available at: http://www.aaos.org/ . The Merck Manual of Medical Information . Simon and Schuster, Inc; 2000. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases website. Available at: http://www.niams.nih.gov/ . Last reviewed October 2007 by Robert E. Leach, MDPlease be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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