Also known as patellofemoral syndrome It is a condition that causes pain in the front part of the knee.
It occurs when the patella cartilage softens and wears out, which can cause the kneecap to rub against the femur, causing pain and inflammation.
This cartilage injury can have different causes:
- Overuse.
- Traumas.
- Patella misalignment.
- Muscle weakness.
- Congenital factors.
In addition to the pain, the rigidity, swelling or crackling/popping sounds in the knee are other of the most characteristic symptoms of this injury. Going up or down stairs, squatting or running can be actions that increase the patient's pain.
There are 4 degrees of evolution of this pathology:
- Grade I: The cartilage is soft but there is no visible damage.
- Grade II: The cartilage has a worn surface.
- Grade III: Significant loss of cartilage appears.
- Grade IV: The cartilage is worn down to the bone.
Sometimes the development of this injury is inevitable but from Evolution Physiotherapy We want to give you some tips To reduce the risk of developing it:
- Achieve a healthy weight that suits your body type.
- Strengthens the leg muscles with the aim of generating good alignment, stability and neuromuscular control from the support on the ground.
- Adjust the physical activity loads you perform to your current physical condition.
- Works on the mobility of the closest joints, gaining joint range in the ankle and hip.
- Do a good warm-up before practicing any sport you are going to do.
- Wear appropriate footwear.
- Take breaks.
In case of suffering chondromalacia patella All is not lost, we can still help you. At our Evolution physiotherapy clinic we will evaluate your case and focus on personalized treatment with the aim of improving your pain, stiffness and inflammation, as well as recovering the functionality of your knee for your daily activities. As a final tip and perhaps the most important DON'T STOP MOVING, rest is never the solution.
