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Chondromalacia Patella (Runners knee): Symptoms And Treatment

About

Chondromalacia Patella, also known as Runnerâ€™s knee, is a painful condition in which the cartilage of under the surface of your kneecaps (patella) soften, leading to deterioration.

Runner's knee accounts for up to 25 percent of all injuries that develop in runners. [1]

- Requires a medical diagnosis
- Requires lab tests or imaging
- It is medium-term and generally resolves within a few months
- Can be medically treated

This condition can be caused due to overuse. For example, while playing a game or as a result of the improper alignment of the kneecaps. It may also stem from weak hamstrings, muscle imbalance or repeated stress on the knee or injuries.

Symptoms

- Pain in the knee region, known as patellofemoral pain.
- Sensations of grinding or cracking during bending and extending your knees
- Pain that worsens with prolonged duration of sitting
- Swelling around the knee area

Treatment

Self-care: Physical therapy includes exercises for strengthening and improving muscle balance. Treatment is undertaken to reduce the pressure on your kneecap or joints. It may consist of medication, therapies and rest.

Medication: Medication includes several weeks of anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen to reduce inflammation.

- Surgical intervention may include an Arthroscopic surgery to treat knee alignment, or cutting ligaments to release tension and allow movement
- Other surgical options may involve smoothing the back of the kneecap, implanting a cartilage graft, or relocating the insertion of the thigh muscle.
Specialists: Chondromalacia Patella can be effectively managed using the right combination of medical, surgical and therapeutic interventions. Feel free to consult our doctors at mfine for professional advice at every stage of your illness and treatment.