tends to rub against one side of the knee joint, irritating the cartilage and causing knee pain. Diagnosis When investigating a possible diagnosis of chondromalacia, a physician will carry out a complete examination of the affected knee. The physician will palpate the patella and surrounding tissue, feel the joint to observe when and how the distress manifests and obtains a list of symptoms and clinical history. The following tests or procedures may be used to refine the diagnosis: A knee X-ray and/or blood test – this can assist to exclude certain types of arthritis or inflammation. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – to observe cartilage condition and assess deterioration Arthroscopy – a low invasive approach to image the inside of the knee joint by inserting an endoscope into the knee joint. Treatment In the absence of cartilage damage, pain at the front of the knee due to overuse can be managed with a combination of RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation), anti-inflammatory medications, and physiotherapy. Usually chondromalacia develops without swelling or bruising and most individuals benefit from rest and adherence to an appropriate physical therapy program. Allowing inflammation to subside while avoiding irritating activities for several weeks is followed by a gradual resumption. Cross-training activities such as swimming – using strokes other than the breaststroke – can help to maintain general fitness and body composition. This is beneficial until a physical therapy program emphasizing strengthening and flexibility of the hip and thigh muscles can be undertaken. Use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication is also helpful to minimize the swelling amplifying patellar pain. Treatment with surgery is declining in popularity due to positive non-surgical outcomes and the relative ineffectiveness of surgical intervention. See also Knee Knee pain Patellofemoral pain syndrome Knee osteoarthritis Plica syndrome Iliotibial band syndrome References External links Overuse injuries Arthropathies Knee injuries and disorders