What can chondromalacia lead to?

What can chondromalacia lead to?

Chondromalacia patella describes early changes in the cartilage on the underside of the patella. If not effectively treated, these early changes may eventually lead to osteoarthritis in the knee joint where the kneecap and femur meet.

What does Grade 3 chondromalacia mean?

Grading System for Chondromalacia Patella Grade 3 shows the thinning of the cartilage along with the active deterioration of the tissue. Grade 4 is the most severe and indicates full degradation of the cartilaginous surface exposing bone on bone rubbing.

What happens if chondromalacia goes untreated?

Chondromalacia patella will not resolve itself on its own, and it gets worse with time. If left untreated, the cartilage under your kneecap will disintegrate, and your patella will become vulnerable.

Is chondromalacia patella a disability?

A disability rating in excess of 20 percent for chondromalacia patella of the right knee is denied. A separate disability rating of 10 percent for degenerative joint disease with noncompensable limitation of extension of the left knee is granted, subject to the provisions governing the award of monetary benefits.

How do you treat Grade 3 chondromalacia?

Standard treatment includes:

1. Weight loss: 1 lb.
2. Regular non-weight-bearing exercises such as biking, rowing or swimming.
3. Cartilage and bone nutrients like glucosamine, chondroitin, calcium and vitamin K twice per day.
4. Tylenol and/or anti-inflammatory medication (i.e. Diclofenac/Voltaren or Ibuprofen/Motrin).

Is Grade 3 chondromalacia bad?

Grade 3 shows thinning of cartilage with active deterioration of the tissue. Grade 4, the most severe grade, indicates exposure of the bone with a significant portion of cartilage deteriorated. Bone exposure means bone-to-bone rubbing is likely occurring in the knee.

Can chondromalacia be healed?

Unlike the damage to cartilage caused by arthritis, damage caused by chondromalacia can often heal. Conservative treatment is usually recommended first since rest and physical therapy may eliminate the symptoms.

How long does it take to recover from chondromalacia patella?

Most people with chondromalacia make a full recovery. That recovery might occur as early as one month, or it could take years, depending on the severity of the condition. In mild to moderate cases, you can manage chondromalacia with rest, ice, and stretching.

What does Grade 3 chondromalacia patella mean?

Grade 3 shows the thinning of the cartilage along with the active deterioration of the tissue. Grade 4 is the most severe and indicates full degradation of the cartilaginous surface exposing bone on bone rubbing. Treatment for Chondromalacia Patella

What are the symptoms of chondromalacia?

The most common symptom of chondromalacia is a dull, aching pain in the front of your knee, behind your kneecap. This pain can get worse when you go up or down stairs. It also can flare up after you have been sitting in one position for a long time.

What causes chondromalacia of the knee?

In the knee, chondromalacia is usually related to injury, overuse of the knee, and poorly aligned muscles and bones around the knee joint. These causes include: An imbalance of the muscles around the knee (Some muscles are weaker than others.) Overuse (repeated bending or twisting) of the knee joint, especially during sports

What are the treatment options for chondromalacia?

Simple nonsurgical treatments can relieve knee pain in most people with chondromalacia. If nonsurgical treatment fails and surgery is required, studies show that most patients are satisfied with the results. Once the damaged cartilage is removed surgically, knee pain usually decreases and the knee functions better.