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Diagnosed With Chondromalacia Patella. Pain In Knees While Walking, Sitting, Playing. Time For Surgery?

Hi, I was diagnosed with Chondromalacia patella or patellofemoral syndrome about five years ago. Now I haven t had any injuries since but I don t do any physical therapy . My knee now hurts when I walk, lay down, sit, drive, play volleyball, and pretty much anything and everything. I find myself limping every time I walk. I can t stand the pain. Do you think it s time for surgery?
posted on Thu, 6 Dec 2012
Twitter Thu, 6 Dec 2012 Answered on
Twitter Fri, 7 Dec 2012 Last reviewed on
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Orthopaedic Surgeon, Joint Replacement,  's  Response
Hello.
Thanks for posting your query.

In chondromalacia, there is softening or wearing down of the articular cartilage on the back of the patella (kneecap) or other bone surface in the joint. Grade 4 is the worst stage .

Treatment for Chondromalacia depends on your symptoms. If you have severe pain and are limited in daily activities or can't play sports like you want to, then you have to consult an orthopedic surgeon about surgery.

Surgery can include microfracture procedure if it's limited to a small area or cleaning up the joint and smoothing the surfaces via scope.

You can also treat it conservatively including physical therapy, RICE, taking a break from activity, strengthening, etc.

Wishing you good health.
Regards
Dr Saurabh Gupta
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Diagnosed With Chondromalacia Patella. Pain In Knees While Walking, Sitting, Playing. Time For Surgery?

Hello. Thanks for posting your query. In chondromalacia, there is softening or wearing down of the articular cartilage on the back of the patella (kneecap) or other bone surface in the joint. Grade 4 is the worst stage . Treatment for Chondromalacia depends on your symptoms. If you have severe pain and are limited in daily activities or can t play sports like you want to, then you have to consult an orthopedic surgeon about surgery. Surgery can include microfracture procedure if it s limited to a small area or cleaning up the joint and smoothing the surfaces via scope. You can also treat it conservatively including physical therapy, RICE, taking a break from activity, strengthening, etc. Wishing you good health. Regards Dr Saurabh Gupta