Man grabbing knee in pain

Physical Therapy for Chondromalacia

Are you having trouble doing simple activities like walking or climbing stairs? It might be chondromalacia, a common knee condition. 

At Evolution Physical Therapy, we specialize in helping patients overcome the pain and discomfort associated with this condition. Our experienced therapists use personalized treatment plans to address symptoms, improve mobility, and improve your quality of life.

What is Chondromalacia?

Chondromalacia, often referred to as chondromalacia patellae, is the softening and breakdown of cartilage on the underside of the kneecap (patella). This cartilage acts as a cushion, allowing smooth movement of the patella over the femur (thighbone). When it deteriorates, the resulting friction can cause pain and inflammation, particularly during movement. This condition is usually associated with:

  • Overuse or repetitive stress on the knee
  • Misalignment of the patella
  • Previous injuries to the knee
  • Weak or imbalanced surrounding muscles

It’s often seen in young athletes, people with an active lifestyle, or older adults experiencing natural cartilage wear.

Chondromalacia manifests through a variety of symptoms, most of which are aggravated by activity. Common symptoms include:

  • Knee Pain: Usually described as a dull ache, pain is typically felt at the front of the knee or around the kneecap.
  • Grinding Sensation: Some people notice a grinding or cracking sound when bending or straightening the knee. 
  • Swelling or Tenderness: The knee might feel swollen or tender to the touch.
  • Stiffness: Long periods of sitting or inactivity can lead to stiffness and discomfort when trying to move the knee again.
  • Difficulty with Movement: Activities like squatting, climbing stairs, or kneeling can be especially painful.

If left untreated, these symptoms can worsen, leading to decreased mobility and quality of life.

Can a Physical Therapist treat Chondromalacia?

Yes, physical therapists play an essential role in the treatment and management of chondromalacia. At Evolution Physical Therapy, we focus on addressing the root cause of the condition and providing long-term relief. 

Physical therapy can help by:

  • Reducing pain and inflammation through targeted exercises and modalities.
  • Improving knee alignment to prevent further cartilage damage
  • Strengthening the muscles surrounding the knee for better joint stability 
  • Improving overall mobility and function

Our team uses a patient-centered approach to create personalized treatment plans. These plans are designed to help you return to your favorite activities without pain.

At Evolution Physical Therapy, we utilize a range of treatments catered to each patient’s needs. These include:

  1. Strengthening Exercises: Building strength in the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip muscles is important for reducing stress on the knee. Exercises, such as leg raises, step-ups, and resistance training, help to stabilize the kneecap and improve joint alignment.
  2. Stretching and Flexibility Work: Tight muscles, particularly in the quadriceps and iliotibial (IT) band, can worsen knee pain. Stretching routines focus on improving flexibility and reducing tension around the knee. 
  3. Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques like massage and joint mobilization help relieve pain, enhance circulation, and improve knee mobility. These methods can also address any alignment issues adding to the condition. 
  4. Gait and Movement Analysis: For individuals with chondromalacia caused by misalignment or poor biomechanics, our therapists perform a comprehensive gait analysis. This allows us to identify improper movement patterns and correct them through targeted interventions.
  5. Patellar Bracing or Taping: In some cases, bracing or taping may be recommended to provide additional support to the kneecap. These tools can improve alignment and reduce strain during daily activities. 
  6. Modalities for Pain Relief: Therapists may use treatments such as ice, heat ultrasound, or electrical stimulation to manage pain and inflammation effectively. 
  7. Education and Prevention Strategies: We empower our patients by teaching them about proper posture, body mechanics, and exercises they can perform at home. This knowledge helps prevent future episodes of chondromalacia.

Visit a Physical Therapist Today for Chondromalacia

Don’t let the symptoms of chondromalacia keep you down.  At Evolution Physical Therapy, we have locations in California, Colorado, Connecticut, and Long Island, with specialist PT providers that offer a range of physical therapy services and help to provide you with the treatment, education, and additional support you need as you heal and recover. Reach out to us today, by calling us to set up an appointment at a location near you, or filling out our Request an Appointment form.