Chondromalacia of the Patella or
Patella-femoral syndrome

Knee injuries are common and it is critical to diagnose and treat these injuries early. Chondromalacia is one of the most common injuries of the knee.  It is caused by functional abnormalities due to a combination of muscle imbalance and a mechanical dysfunction or "maltracking" of the patella during knee flexion and extension. The syndrome results in painful stance, walking and stair climbing.

 

Mechanism of injury:

The knee cap, or patella is embedded in the quadriceps tendon. The patella enhances knee movements by providing gliding action to the quadriceps tendon, during knee extension and flexion, as it is tracking in the groove of the femoral condyle.  If the thigh and the leg has an abnormal angulation, then during knee extension, a weak quadriceps muscle will be unable to keep the patella in the groove.  This "mechanical failure" causes misalignment, maltracking and it derails the patella from its anatomical groove at every quadriceps contraction .

The resulting pathological rubbing and friction caused by the sharp edges of the femoral condyle, roughens and scratches the under-surface of the patella.  Knee movements, (walking and stair climbing) become painful.

In early stages, the condition can be treated conservatively.  Treatment consists of physical therapy including ultrasound, special exercise protocol for the patella and medications.  Ultrasound helps to fill the scratches. The effects are similar to a "Zamboni" ice machine.

If you you are suffering of a knee injury or knee pain do not hesitate to seek timely and professional help.

Call New York Midtown Orthopedics for an appointment !

 

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