Chondromalacia patellae

Chondromalacia patellae (also known as CMP) is an inflammation of the underside of the patella and softening of the cartilage.

This article is about certain forms of inflammation under the patella. For other uses, see Runner's knee.
Chondromalacia patella
SpecialtyOrthopedics

The cartilage under the kneecap is a natural shock absorber, and overuse, injury, and many other factors can cause increased deterioration and breakdown of the cartilage. The cartilage is no longer smooth and therefore movement and use is very painful.[1] While it often affects young individuals engaged in active sports, it also afflicts older adults who overwork their knees.[2][3]

Chondromalacia patellae is sometimes used synonymously with patellofemoral pain syndrome.[4] However, there is general consensus that patellofemoral pain syndrome applies only to individuals without cartilage damage.[4][5]

Cause

The condition may result from acute injury to the patella or chronic friction between the patella and a groove in the femur through which it passes during knee flexion.[6] Possible causes include a tight iliotibial band, neuromas, bursitis, overuse, malalignment, core instability, and patellar maltracking.

Pain at the front or inner side of the knee is common in adults of all ages especially when engaging in soccer, gymnastics, cycling, rowing, tennis, ballet, basketball, horseback riding, volleyball, running, combat sports, figure skating, snowboarding, skateboarding and even swimming. The pain is typically felt after prolonged sitting.[7] Skateboarders most commonly experience this injury in their non-dominant foot due to the constant kicking and twisting required of it. Swimmers acquire it doing the breaststroke, which demands an unusual motion of the knee. People who are involved in an active life style with high impact on the knees are at greatest risk. Proper management of physical activity may help prevent worsening of the condition. Athletes are advised to talk to a physician for further medical diagnosis as symptoms may be similar to more serious problems within the knee. Tests are not necessarily needed for diagnosis, but in some situations it may confirm diagnosis or rule out other causes for pain. Commonly used tests are blood tests, MRI scans, and arthroscopy.[8]

While the term chondromalacia sometimes refers to abnormal-appearing cartilage anywhere in the body,[9] it most commonly denotes irritation of the underside of the kneecap (or "patella"). The patella's posterior surface is covered with a layer of smooth cartilage, which the base of the femur normally glides smoothly against when the knee is bent. However, in some individuals the kneecap tends to rub against one side of the knee joint, irritating the cartilage and causing knee pain.[10]


Treatment

In the absence of cartilage damage, pain at the front of the knee due to overuse can be managed with a combination of RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation), anti-inflammatory medications, and physiotherapy.[11]

Usually chondromalacia develops without swelling or bruising and most individuals benefit from rest and adherence to an appropriate physical therapy program. Allowing inflammation to subside while avoiding irritating activities for several weeks is followed by a gradual resumption. Cross-training activities such as swimming – using strokes other than the breaststroke – can help to maintain general fitness and body composition. This is beneficial until a physical therapy program emphasizing strengthening and flexibility of the hip and thigh muscles can be undertaken. Use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication is also helpful to minimize the swelling amplifying patellar pain. Treatment with surgery is declining in popularity due to positive non-surgical outcomes and the relative ineffectiveness of surgical intervention.[10]

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See also

References
  1. "Chondromalicia patella". Mayo Clinic. Mayo Foundation for Medial Education and Research (MFMER). Retrieved 9 December 2013.
  2. Grelsamer, Ronald P (2005). "Patellar Nomenclature". Clinical Orthopaedics and Related Research (436): 60–5. doi:10.1097/01.blo.0000171545.38095.3e. PMID 15995421.
  3. "Isolated patellofemoral arthritis often overlooked". Academy News. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. February 6, 1999.
  4. Heintjes, E; Berger, MY; Bierma-Zeinstra, SM; Bernsen, RM; Verhaar, JA; Koes, BW (2004). "Pharmacotherapy for patellofemoral pain syndrome". The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews (3): CD003470. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD003470.pub2. PMID 15266488.
  5. Dixit, S; DiFiori, JP; Burton, M; Mines, B (Jan 15, 2007). "Management of patellofemoral pain syndrome". American Family Physician. 75 (2): 194–202. PMID 17263214.
  6. Shiel, William C.; Cunha, John P. (June 27, 2012). "Chondromalacia Patella". MedicineNet. Retrieved May 19, 2013.
  7. Gauresh. "Knee Cap Pain".
  8. "Chondromalacia patellae". Health Information Patient.info. Egton Medical Information Systems Ltd. Retrieved 9 December 2013.
  9. Schindler, Oliver S. (2004). "Synovial plicae of the knee". Current Orthopaedics. 18 (3): 210–9. doi:10.1016/j.cuor.2004.03.005.
  10. Cluett, Jonathan (June 14, 2011). "Chondromalacia". About.com.
  11. Jenkins, Mark A.; Caryn Honig (2005-06-02). "Patello-Femoral Syndrome". Archived from the original on 2008-10-09. Retrieved 2008-10-06.
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External resources
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