Chondromalacia Patella
Chondromalacia patella, commonly known as runner’s knee, is a condition where the cartilage under the kneecap (patella) becomes soft and damaged. This leads to pain at the front of the knee, especially during activities like climbing stairs, squatting, or sitting for long periods. Physiotherapy treatment is highly effective in reducing pain, improving kneecap alignment, and restoring normal knee function.
What is Chondromalacia Patella?
The kneecap (patella) normally glides smoothly over the thigh bone (femur) when the knee bends and straightens. It is covered with cartilage that acts as a cushion and reduces friction.
In chondromalacia patella, this cartilage becomes softened and worn down, causing irritation when the kneecap moves. This results in pain at the front of the knee (anterior knee pain).
This condition is common in:
- Runners and athletes
- Teenagers and young adults
- Females (more commonly affected)
- Individuals with poor knee alignment or muscle imbalance
Early physiotherapy can help prevent further cartilage damage.
Causes
Chondromalacia patella usually develops due to poor kneecap tracking and repeated stress on the knee joint.
Common causes include:
- Muscle imbalances in the thigh or hip
- Weak quadriceps muscles
- Tight muscles around the knee or hip
- Flat feet or poor biomechanics
- Misalignment of the kneecap
- Repetitive activities such as running or jumping
- Overuse of the knee joint
These factors cause the kneecap to move unevenly, leading to cartilage wear over time.
Symptoms
The most common symptom is pain at the front of the knee.
Other symptoms include:
- Pain when sitting for long periods (theatre sign)
- Pain when climbing stairs or squatting
- Pain when standing up from a seated position
- Grinding or clicking sensation in the knee
- Tenderness around the kneecap
- Mild swelling in some cases
Symptoms often worsen with activity or prolonged knee bending.
What Should I Do?
If you suspect chondromalacia patella, early treatment can help prevent worsening.
You should:
- Rest and avoid activities that increase pain
- Apply ice to reduce discomfort and swelling
- Avoid prolonged sitting with bent knees
- Seek physiotherapy assessment
A physiotherapist can identify the underlying cause and create a treatment plan.
Physiotherapy Treatment
Physiotherapy is the most effective treatment for chondromalacia patella.
At ACE Physio Sports, treatment focuses on correcting movement patterns and restoring knee function.
Treatment may include:
Strengthening Exercises
Exercises target the quadriceps, hip, and glute muscles to improve kneecap alignment.
Stretching Exercises
Stretching helps reduce tightness in muscles around the thigh and hip.
Taping Techniques
Knee taping helps guide proper patella movement and reduce pain.
Biomechanical Correction
Assessment of walking and movement patterns helps correct underlying issues.
Orthotics Advice
Supportive footwear or orthotics may be recommended for flat feet or alignment issues.
Activity Modification
Guidance on safe return to sports and daily activities.
These treatments help restore proper kneecap tracking and reduce stress on the joint.
What Shouldn’t I Do?
If you have chondromalacia patella, avoid:
- Running or jumping through pain
- Deep squatting or kneeling
- Ignoring persistent knee pain
- Returning to sports too early
- Skipping rehabilitation exercises
These actions can worsen cartilage damage.
Long-Term Effects or Recovery
With proper physiotherapy treatment, most people recover fully from chondromalacia patella.
If left untreated, the condition may lead to:
- Persistent knee pain
- Worsening cartilage damage
- Increased risk of patellofemoral arthritis
Early physiotherapy helps prevent long-term complications and supports full recovery.
Why Choose ACE Physio Sports
At ACE Physio Sports, we specialise in knee pain treatment and sports injury rehabilitation.
Our clinic provides:
- Evidence-based physiotherapy treatment
- Personalised rehabilitation programmes
- Movement and biomechanics assessment
- Sports injury recovery plans
- Long-term injury prevention strategies
Our goal is to help patients reduce pain, restore knee function, and return to activity safely.
Book an Appointment
If you are experiencing front knee pain or symptoms of chondromalacia patella, physiotherapy can help restore movement and prevent further damage.
ACE Physio Sports
Website: acephysiosport.com Phone: +65 81535374 Email: admin@acephysiosport.com
Contact us today to arrange your physiotherapy consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my knee hurt when I go up or down stairs?
Stair pain is a hallmark of many knee conditions, including Chondromalacia Patella. Stairs significantly increase the load through the knee joint and surrounding structures. Physiotherapy identifies where the weakness or irritation lies and targets it with specific exercises.
My knee swells after activity — is that serious?
Post-activity swelling in Chondromalacia Patella indicates the knee is being irritated beyond its current tolerance. Physiotherapy can reduce inflammation, help modify your activity load, and progressively build the knee's capacity to handle more demand.
Can I still exercise with Chondromalacia Patella?
Yes — low-impact exercise like swimming, cycling, and targeted strength training is usually fine and beneficial. Your physiotherapist will identify which activities are appropriate and create a programme that builds knee strength without aggravating your condition.
Ready to start your recovery?
Our specialist physiotherapists are here to help. Book a consultation today.
Book an Appointment