WHAT IS IT? CHONDROMALACIA PATELLA
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Chondromalacia patella is a condition which affects the knee. The articular cartilage on the back of the knee cap softens and can result in wear and tear.
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The condition has similar causative factors to patellofemoral syndrome.
Signs and symptoms
- Pain at the front of the knee (behind the knee cap) with activity
- Swelling
- Crepitus (grating or grinding)
- Aggravated by climbing stairs, running
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WHAT CAUSES IT?​
- Irritation or rubbing of under the surface of the patella on femur
- Acute or repetitive trauma
- Genetic tendency
- Rapid growth
- High impact sports
- Tight ITB
- Abnormal lower limb alignment (knock knees, over pronation)
- Maltracking of the patella
- Poor lumbopelvic stability
HOW TO SELF MANAGE
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R.I.C.E. protocol
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Rest from or modify aggravating activities
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Try walking and swimming as alternate forms of exercise
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Speak to your GP or pharmacist RE suitable medication for pain relief
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Seek x-ray or scan to confirm diagnosis
PROGNOSIS
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Rest may be enough to settle pain and allow tissues time to repair
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An X-ray and MRI will determine the extent of damage
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An arthroscope may be required to smooth or repair the cartilage lining the under-surface of the patella.
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If not managed, there is a likelihood the OCD will progress to osteoarthritis
HOW PHYSIO HELPS?
- Assess your knee for chondromalacia patella
- Refer for investigation if necessary
- Review training and sport for activity modification
- Release tight structures (ITB, lateral retinaculum)
- Assess for lower limb muscular imbalance
- Patella mobilisation
- Patella strapping
- Prescription of exercises to correct imbalances in flexibility and strength
- Pilates exercises to improve lumbopelvic stability
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