Often called “runner’s knee”, chondromalacia patella is a common condition that causes pain in the knee cap, due to softening of the cartilage.
Chondromalacia, also known as patellofemoral pain syndrome, involves the softening or breakdown of the cartilage on the underside of the kneecap. This cartilage normally allows smooth movement of the patella within the femoral groove. When it wears down or becomes irritated, patients experience pain at the front of the knee, especially when bending, kneeling, or climbing stairs.
Muscle imbalance: Weak thigh or hip muscles can affect kneecap alignment, increasing joint pressure.
Kneecap misalignment: If the patella doesn’t track correctly in the groove, it can wear down the cartilage.
Previous trauma: Direct injuries to the kneecap can lead to softening or damage of the underlying cartilage.
tructural factors: Flat feet or high Q-angle alignment can place uneven force on the knee joint.
Diagnosis starts with a physical exam to assess pain location, kneecap movement, and joint function. Patients often report a dull ache at the front of the knee, worsened by activity or prolonged sitting. Clinicians may perform patellar tracking tests and use imaging such as X-rays or MRI scans to rule out other causes and confirm cartilage wear. Once diagnosed, treatment options can range from physiotherapy to reduce pressure on the patella to minimally invasive procedures for more advanced cases.
Who it suits
Chondromalacia occurs when the patella, in the kneecap, softens. It’s common in athletes who do high-impact sports, or those who have arthritis in their knees.
Chondromalacia can develop gradually. The cartilage on the underside of the knee starts to wear away, causing grinding and rubbing in the knee cap. This often results in inflammation and pain. Chondromalacia can also develop as a result of a traumatic injury, such as a knee fracture.
Symptoms often include a dull, aching pain in the front of the knee, as well as crunching, pain and stiffness. The pain is often worse when squatting, kneeling, sitting for extended periods, and when climbing stairs.
Cost and paying
We offer a range of flexible payment options to make your treatment experience smooth and stress-free.
Most patients choose to self-fund their treatment. We accept:
We’ve partnered with GoCardless to offer interest-free instalment options. You can easily set up a Direct Debit to spread the cost of your treatment over time.
Looking for a financing plan? You can apply through Kandoo, our trusted finance partner.
We work with a small number of approved insurance providers. However, due to restrictions from many insurers, not all treatments are covered. Please check with your insurer and speak to our team before booking to avoid disappointment.
What happens
Use our website to book an initial consultation, or give us a call.
Our doctors might request you arrange a scan before your initial consultation. Or, they’ll chat with you (face to face or online) and recommend a scan after your initial consultation, if they think you need one.
Once your scan results have been reviewed, and your doctor has explained your options, you will be booked in for treatment.
Following your treatment, your doctor will give you rehab recommendations.
You will be booked in for a follow-up consultation, so your doctor can check your progress. You might need further rehab after this consultation.
Once your doctor is happy with your recovery, you will be discharged. After discharge, we are always here for further questions or support, should you need it.
What are the symptoms of Chondromalacia?
Will Chondromalacia heal on its own?
London Cartilage Clinic
We now offer select services at our Harley Street London clinic through the London Cartilage Clinic, led by internationally recognised surgeon Professor Paul Lee.
Our London clinic offers advanced treatments like cartilage regeneration and joint preservation to help patients avoid or delay joint replacement.
Located in Central London, our clinic provides convenient access to world-class musculoskeletal care without long NHS wait times.
If you would like to be seen in Central London, visit our London Clinic page for pricing, available treatments, and to book directly online.
Our Harley Street clinic uses cutting-edge techniques designed to reduce downtime and support faster, more effective recovery, getting you back to your lifestyle sooner.
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