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Patellofemoral Syndrome (Chondromalacia Patella)
- Due to degeneration of the cartilage underneath the patella
- Patients often present with:
- A grinding sensation when the knee is extended
- Pain in the front of the knee that typically worsens after sitting for a long period of time
- Knee pain that worsens with using stairs, running or when needing to bend the knee deeply (i.e.: squats)
- Commonly thought to be due to overuse (i.e.: new running program, or marching as in military recruits), but can also be due to anatomic abnormalities like pes planus or a large Q angle. Ultimate cause is likely to be multifactorial
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- Can be treated with NSAIDs, and limiting activity
- Physical Therapy that helps to strengthen the quadriceps can help prevent the patella from grinding on the femoral condyles.
References
Juhn MS et al. Patellofemoral pain syndrome: a review and guidelines for treatment. Am Fam Physician. (1999)