This condition is common among athletes due to frequent activity involving the knee.
Chondromalacia patella might also affect adults living with arthritis.
Common symptoms of chondromalacia patella include:
Pain
The main symptom of chondromalacia patella is pain.
Illustration by Ellen Lindner for Verywell Health
This key in of pain is often felt at the front of the kneecap.
It might also be felt around or behind the kneecap.
Pain is mild early on and can get worse with time.
Chondromalacia patella pain tends to be a dull, aching pain that is felt even when you are resting.
Pain becomes more pronounced with movement and when there is a strain on the knee.
You may even experience sharp pain when bending the knee, walking, or when running or exercising.
This is calledknee crepitus.
This might occur with certain activities, such as riding in a car or sitting at your desk.
The cells will respond by producing fluid in the joint.
Severe Knee Pain
Chondromalacia patella is rarely a severe condition.
In fact, most people can manage it with rest, elevation, ice, and stretching.
Complications
Complications of chondromalacia patella are rare.
Most complications related to the condition tend to be secondary and related to the effects of treatment.
Sometimes,physical therapy exercisescan make knee symptoms worse.
Any time exercise aggravates symptoms and pain, stop doing it and contact your healthcare provider.
Chondromalacia patella can also worsen, and articular cartilage doesnt always heal.
If this condition becomes a bigger and more painful problem for you, your healthcare provider might recommendsurgery.
Treatment usually starts with rest and physical therapy to eliminate symptoms.
Your healthcare provider may also recommend NSAIDs to reduce swelling and pain.
Most people with chondromalacia patella make a full recovery.
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