Chondromalacia patella: Causes the cartilage underneath the kneecap to

Chondromalacia patella causes the cartilage underneath the kneecap to deteriorate and wear out, leading to pain, stiffness, and other discomforts. Chondromalacia patellae is damage to the cartilage at the back of the kneecap, which can cause pain and grating in the knee. Learn about the possible causes, diagnosis, and conservative treatment options, such as physiotherapy and exercises. Chondromalacia patellae refers to softening and degeneration of the articular hyaline cartilage of the patella that articulates with the trochlear groove of the femur and is a frequent cause of anterior knee pain. Tends to occur in young adults. There is a recognized female predilection. Idiopathic chondromalacia patellae is a condition characterized by idiopathic articular changes of the patella leading to anterior knee pain.