Chondromalacia patella is the most common cause of chronic knee pain. The cartilage under your kneecap (patella) is a natural shock absorber. Overuse, injury or other factors may lead to a condition known as chondromalacia patella a general term that indicates damage to the cartilage under your kneecap. The articular cartilage is the cartilage lining under the knee-cap that articulates with the knee joint.This can be caused by a muscle imbalance (Weak quadriceps and strong hamstrings, etc.) Excessive pronation (arch collapsing too much, causing the knee cap to twist side ways) can also be a source of chondromalacia. Chondromalacia patella is also informally called " housemaid's knee " or " secretary's knee ." Under normal circumstances, it is smooth and shiny, so that it glides smoothly along the articular groove of the femur as the knee bends. Increasing knee flexibility with stretching exercises helps. Activities that worsen the pain should be avoided. Analgesic or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help relieve symptoms. The most common symptom of patellofemoral pain is knee pain that increases when you walk up or down stairs. It also may hurt to kneel or squat. Simple treatments such as rest and ice often help, but sometimes more aggressive treatment is needed.

Causes of Chondromalacia

The common Causes of Chondromalacia :

A slight problem with alignment and overuse with sports may be the commonest reason for the condition to develop.
Injury to the knee.
Overuse of the knee, such as in certain sports.
In older people it may develop as part of the ageing process where there is 'wear and tear' of cartilage in many joints.

Symptoms of Chondromalacia

Some common Symptoms of Chondromalacia :

Knee tenderness
A grating or grinding sensation when the knee is extended
Knee pain that worsens with using stairs or getting out of a chair
Usually, the more advanced the condition, the more severe the pain in the knee.
Knee pain in the front of the knee that worsens after sitting for prolonged time
Pain while extending the leg or while walking or running.
A feeling or sensation of grinding, popping or snapping in the knee during motion.

Treatment of Chondromalacia

Avoiding sports or activities suspected of causing the injury until recovered.
Stretching quadriceps, iliotibial band , hamstrings , back, and calves regularly.
Corrective exercises. ie. For Vastus Medialis weakness, doing Single Leg Extensions and Leg Presses. Ask a physiotherapist or personal trainer to demonstrate.
Wearing comfortable shoes.
Strengthening weak muscles with light and low-impact exercise. Especially important is strengthening the inner quadriceps ( vastus medialis ) to balance the forces on the knee cap.
Maintaining good posture, and avoiding crossing the legs for long periods.
Avoid applying excessive weight on the affected joint, by losing weight if necessary.

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