Chondromalacia Patella
It is a condition in which there is a damage to the cartilage of the patella due to its chronic overloading. Chondromalacia patella is the most common cause of knee pain in:
martial arts, jumping and running athletes
people who perform repetitive physical movement, such as those who carry heavy loads and climb stairs frequently
people who strain their knees due to sedentary work, such as office work and taxi drivers
🔴 The symptoms that characterize the condition are pain and difficulty in squatting or climbing stairs, a "burning" sensation and a "crack" sound within the joint.
🎯 Therapeutic approach includes:
- lymphatic massage techniques
- kinesiotherapy
- isotonic and isometric leg muscle strengthening exercises
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FAQs
1. How many sessions does it take to see improvement?
The number and frequency of sessions are determined by the severity, duration and nature of the condition. Significant improvement is usually observed over a course of 4 to 6 sessions. However, to maintain and enhance the results additional maintenance sessions at regular intervals are recommended. These are individually tailed to the progression of the condition and the needs of the body.
2. Is the treatment combined with other methods?
Treatment is effectively combined with other methods, such as kinesiotherapy to improve range of motion, neuromuscular strengthening exercises to enhance stability and movement control, and a structured stretching program to reduce muscle tension and relieve stress on tendons, as well as organic interventions aimed at modifying activities and avoiding aggravating movements. All instructions are individually designed according to the patient's needs and the characteristics of the dysfunction, in order to achieve optimal rehabilitation. A holistic approach leads to more stable and long-lasting outcomes.
3. What exercises are safe and beneficial for chondropathy?
Low-impact and controlled strengthening exercises are particularly beneficial. Recommended exercises include:
- Isotonic and isometric quadriceps exercises.
- Exercises using elastic resistance bands.
- Cycling without resistance
- Swimming
- Stretching of the gluteal and hamstring muscles
Exercises involving excessive knee bending, such as deep squats that increase pressure on the patellofemoral joint, should be avoided.
4. Can treatment relieve pain or reverse the damage?
Treatment is a key approach to pain relief and improving knee function. Although it may not fully reverse the cartilage damage, it can slow its progression by strengthening the surrounding muscles, offloading the patella, and improving joint kinematics.