Knee Pain
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Knee Pain (Chondromalacia Patella)
Chondromalacia patella (knee pain) is the softening and breakdown of the tissue (cartilage) on the underside of the kneecap (patella). Pain results when the knee and the thigh bone (femur) rub together. Dull, aching pain and/or a feeling of grinding when the knee is flexed may occur. The most common way to treat symptoms of chondromalacia patella is to rest the knee.
What is chondromalacia patella?
Chondromalacia patella (knee pain) is the softening and breakdown of the tissue (cartilage) on the underside of the kneecap (patella). Pain results when the knee and the thigh bone (femur) rub together.
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What causes chondromalacia patella?
Chondromalacia patella often occurs when the undersurface of the kneecap comes in contact with the thigh bone causing swelling and pain. Abnormal knee cap positioning, tightness or weakness of the muscles associated with the knee, too much activity involving the knee, and flat feet may increase the likelihood of chondromalacia patella.
- RBehind the kneecap
- RBelow the kneecap
- ROn the sides of the kneecap
- ROn the sides of the kneecap
- RGoing down stairs
- RRunning down hill
- RStanding up after sitting for awhile
How is chondromalacia patella treated?
The most common way to treat symptoms of chondromalacia patella is to rest the knee. Other ways to treat the symptoms include:
- RPlacing of an ice or cold pack to the area for 15-20 minutes, four times daily, for several days. Do not apply ice directly to the skin. Wrap the ice or cold pack with a towel.
- RNonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief—These include ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin.
- RTopical pain medication— These include creams or patches that are applied to the skin to help with soft tissue pain.
- RPrescription pain relievers.
- RChanging the way you exercise
- RDoing exercises to both stretch and strengthen the quadriceps and hamstring muscles
- RLosing weight (if you need to)
- RUsing special shoe inserts and support devices
- RTaping to realign the kneecap
- RWearing the right kind of sport or running shoes
What is the prognosis (outlook) for chondromalacia patella?
Individuals suffering from knee pain caused by chondromalacia patella often make a full recovery. Recovery can be as fast as a month or take years, depending on the case. Many long-term recoveries occur in teenagers because their bones are still growing. Symptoms tend to disappear once adulthood is reached.