Chondromalacia of the Knee — Common Even in Young Adults
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If you feel a dull ache in the front of your knee, especially when going down stairs, and stiffness when standing up after sitting for a long time, you may have chondromalacia of the knee (chondromalacia patellae). Knee problems are commonly thought to affect only older adults, but chondromalacia frequently occurs in people in their 20s and 30s as well.
What is chondromalacia?
It is a condition in which the cartilage on the back of the patella (kneecap) softens and becomes damaged. Healthy cartilage is smooth and elastic, but as chondromalacia progresses the cartilage surface becomes rough, develops cracks, and in severe cases wears away.
Main symptoms
- Dull pain in the front of the knee (around the patella)
- Worse pain when going down stairs or walking down a slope
- Stiffness when standing up after sitting for a long time (theater sign)
- A grinding or crackling sound when bending and straightening the knee
- Difficulty squatting
Why it occurs in young adults
- Patellar maltracking — the patella drifts laterally, causing uneven pressure
- Weak quadriceps — weak front-thigh muscles reduce patellar stability
- Overuse — repetitive knee use from running, hiking, cycling, and similar activities
- Flat feet, knock knees — lower-limb alignment problems increase pressure on the patella
Treatment and prevention
Chondromalacia can be effectively slowed when managed in its early stages.
- Acupuncture and pharmacopuncture to control inflammation around the joint and improve blood flow
- Herbal medicine to support nutrition for the cartilage
- Quadriceps strengthening exercises (leg press, straight leg raise)
- Avoid squatting, descending stairs, and other movements that strain the patella
- Maintain a healthy body weight
If pain in the front of the knee is recurring, do not dismiss it as a simple muscle ache. We recommend getting a professional diagnosis and starting appropriate management early.