Diagnosis
Your diagnosis is patellar pain syndrome with cartilage softening (chondromalacia).
Injury or Condition
This condition often results from inadequate muscle strength. The patella (kneecap) becomes painful and its cartilaginous undersurface may be softened (chondromalacia). This condition is frequently seen in growing teenagers.
Cause
This painful condition may be normal, similar to some headaches. The most probable cause of pain is vascular congestion within your kneecap. Pain may develop as a result of unaccustomed bending (flexion) activities of your knee like hiking downhill.
Symptoms
Typical symptoms are pain usually in the front (anterior) aspect of the knee. Pain may be present in both knees. Swelling and stiffness are usually absent.
Treatment
Standard treatment includes:
- Consistent quadriceps strengthening activities, like biking, on a regular basis for 2-4 months before improvement will be recognized.
- Tylenol and/or anti-inflammatory medication for 2-4 weeks.
- Weight loss is necessary for patients who are overweight.
- Topical application of knee balms or circumferential knee wraps/sleeves can help.
- Long walks are encouraged, especially on level terrain.
- Cartilage supplementation such as Glucosamine and Chondroitin can be helpful if taken consistently.
- Physical therapy instruction may be helpful in decreasing pain and providing a good muscle strengthening program.
Precautions
Important precautions:
- Surgical treatment is not indicated for this condition.
- Quadriceps strengthening may actually increase pain during the first two months. Don’t give up on your exercise program.
- Don’t panic! This condition is common. It almost always recovers gradually over time.
Recovery
Expected recovery is six months depending on your adherence to the treatment program.
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