Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
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Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Chondromalacia Patella
What is Chondromalacia Patella?
Chondromalacia patella, often referred to as runner’s knee, is a condition where the cartilage on the underside of the kneecap (patella) becomes softened and begins to break down over time. This degeneration reduces the cartilage’s ability to act as a smooth, protective surface, leading to irritation and pain when the kneecap moves against the thigh bone (femur).
The main symptom of chondromalacia patella is anterior knee pain — discomfort at the front of the knee, which is often aggravated by activities such as climbing stairs, squatting, running, or sitting for long periods with bent knees. Early recognition and appropriate physiotherapy can significantly reduce pain, restore proper knee function, and prevent further damage.
How does Chondromalacia Patella happen?
Chondromalacia patella most commonly develops in teenagers and young adults and is seen more frequently in females than in males. The patella (kneecap) normally glides smoothly over the knee joint when the leg bends and straightens. However, in chondromalacia patella, the kneecap does not track properly and instead rubs against the femur (thigh bone). Over time, this abnormal movement irritates the cartilage underneath the patella, causing it to soften, weaken, and eventually break down.
There are several contributing factors that can lead to this abnormal tracking, including:
- Biomechanical problems such as flat feet or misalignment of the patella.
- Muscle imbalances around the hip and thigh that cause uneven pulling forces on the kneecap.
- Weakness or tightness of the quadriceps or surrounding leg muscles.
- High activity levels, particularly sports involving running, squatting, or jumping, which place repeated stress on the kneecap. Diabetes
What are the symptoms of Chondromalacia Patella?
The most common symptom of chondromalacia patella is pain at the front of the knee, especially during activities that load the joint. Symptoms may include:
- Pain in the front of the knee after sitting for long periods with the knee bent (sometimes called the theatre sign).
- Increased pain when rising from a chair, climbing stairs, or squatting.
- A grinding, clicking, or cracking sensation in the knee.
- Local tenderness around or behind the kneecap.
What should I do if I have Chondromalacia Patella?
If you suspect you have chondromalacia patella, it is important to consult a physiotherapist. A physiotherapist can assess the underlying causes, reduce pain and inflammation, improve muscle balance and strength, and help restore normal tracking of the kneecap.
Until you receive professional advice, you should:
- Rest the knee and avoid activities that worsen your pain.
- Apply ice to reduce discomfort and swelling.
- Avoid prolonged sitting or repetitive deep knee bends.
Early treatment is essential to prevent further cartilage damage and to help you return safely to normal activities and sports.
What shouldn’t I do if I have Chondromalacia Patella?
If you have or suspect you have chondromalacia patella, it is important to avoid activities that overload the knee until you receive advice from a physiotherapist. High-impact movements such as running, jumping, or repetitive squatting can aggravate the kneecap, increase pain, and potentially cause further cartilage damage. Continuing with these activities without guidance can prolong recovery and worsen the condition.
Physiotherapy treatment for Chondromalacia Patella
Physiotherapy is one of the most effective ways to manage and treat chondromalacia patella. A physiotherapist will carefully assess your knee, confirm the diagnosis, and determine the severity of the problem. Based on this, an individualised treatment programme may include:
- Stretching exercises to release tight muscles around the thigh and hip.
- Strengthening exercises to improve quadriceps, hip, and glute muscle function.
- Knee taping techniques to improve patella tracking and reduce pain during movement.
- Orthotics or footwear advice if poor biomechanics (such as flat feet) are contributing factors.
- Education and activity guidance to help you safely return to exercise and prevent recurrence.
The goal of physiotherapy is to relieve pain, restore proper patella movement, and improve long-term knee function.
Could there be any long-term effects from Chondromalacia Patella?
With appropriate treatment, most people recover from chondromalacia patella and are able to return to normal activities without long-term issues. However, if left untreated or if symptoms persist, the damaged cartilage may worsen over time and increase the risk of developing patellofemoral arthritis. In severe cases, long-term management or even surgical intervention may be required to remove damaged cartilage and restore joint health.
Early diagnosis, rest, and structured physiotherapy are essential in reducing the risk of long-term complications.
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