I have Chondromalacia Patella, what to watch out for?

What is Chondromalacia Patella ?

Chondromalacia Patella is one of the most common arthropathies. It concerns the knee joint (chondromalacia of the patella) and refers mainly to older people. However, there are not a few cases where it can appear even in young people.

It is a painful condition due to the degeneration of the cartilage of the joints.

Chondromalacia patella, is the most common cause of knee pain. Specifically, it is a condition where the cartilage on the lower surface of the kneecap wears away and softens.

Its incidence is greater in women and the elderly. However, it also occurs quite often in those who stress their joints with repetitive movements, such as athletes, active people, teenagers and others. [1]

Causes

Chondromalacia patella, as it is often called, often occurs when the lower surface of the kneecap comes into contact with the femur, causing swelling and pain.

Many different types of joint injuries and disorders can lead to cartilage degeneration [2]. In the knee, chondromalacia causes usually include: [3]

• Trauma, especially a fracture (break) or dislocation of the kneecap
• Muscle imbalance around the knee (Some muscles are weaker than others)
• Overuse (repeated bending or twisting) of the knee joint, especially during sports
• “Misaligned” muscles or bones near the knee joint
• Meniscus injury (C-shaped cartilage inside the knee joint)
• Rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis
• Repeated episodes of bleeding inside the knee joint
• Intravenous steroid drugs

It is especially common in runners, skiers, soccer players, cyclists and other athletes who repeatedly strain their knees.

Chondromalacia patella: symptoms

The most common symptom is a nagging pain that occurs in the front of the knee, in the area of ​​the kneecap. This pain can be identified: [2]

• Behind the kneecap
• Below the kneecap
• On the sides of the kneecap

There may also be a “rubbing” sound or feeling when the knee bends. This can happen:

• Doing “squats”
• Going down stairs
• Running downhill

Chondromalacia patella: Treatment

In many cases, if chondromalacia is not properly treated, it may lead to patellofemoral arthritis and/or knee osteoarthritis.

We must not forget that there are now specialized nutritional supplements with herbs and vitamins for chondromalacia recognized by the scientific community. They contribute, one would say, both to the fight against pain and inflammation, and to rebuilding the cartilage of the knee.

Vitamins for chondromalacia 

Vitamin D

It is particularly important to replenish the body with Vitamin D. This is explained if one considers that its lack is considered one of the common causes of chondromalacia.

Specifically: [4]

• Vitamin D helps maintain calcium and phosphate levels in the body in order to form bones and cartilage.

Glucosamine

Glucosamine is an amino sugar and is found in high concentrations in cartilage and synovial fluid. In fact, it is a structural component of keratin and hyaluronic acid. [5]

Contribute:

• in the synthesis and maintenance of cartilage and synovial fluid
• in reducing the synthesis of enzymes with high catabolic activity in the cartilage.

Chondroitin

Chondroitin sulfate is one of the main components of cartilage, where it joins with a central protein, forming the proteoglycans, which give cartilage its mechanical and elastic properties. [5][6] It is important because:

• Lubricates the joint (attracting water molecules).
• Activates cartilage repair mechanisms
• It inhibits the proteolytic enzymes involved in the degradation of collagen in the joints.

Collagen

Collagen is the most abundant protein in the human body. It is found in bones, muscles, skin and tendons, mainly providing structural support.[7]

What 

• Absorbs vibration and renews cartilage.
• Reduces pain
• Reduces joint stiffness.
• Enhances endogenous collagen production.

Hyaluronic Acid

Hyaluronic acid is the main component of synovial fluid. It is a biological polysaccharide (glycosaminoglycan) found in the extracellular matrix of most tissues.[8] It is important in chondromalacia because:

• Reduces pain and inflammation in the joint
• It acts as a “lubricant” of the joints and also helps to absorb their vibrations.

MSM

Methylsulfonylmethane (Dimethylsulfone or, more commonly, MSM) is a small organic sulfur-containing molecule widely touted for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.[9]

• It delays the onset of osteoarthritis
• Relieves pain and stiffness
• It contributes to the elasticity of the cartilage

Herbs for chondromalacia patella

Boswellia

The resin from Boswellia extract has been used for centuries in Asia and Africa to treat chronic inflammation and a host of other health conditions. Specifically: [10]

• It has an excellent anti-inflammatory effect (reduces swelling, pain and general inflammation of the stressed joint).
• It helps to improve joint movement.

Turmeric

The main active ingredient in turmeric – curcumin – is what gives the spice its yellow color. [11]

• Curcumin exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, making it a potential treatment for reducing pain and facilitating mobility in people with osteoarthritis.

Chondromalacia patella: exercises

Non-weight-bearing exercises that do not stress the joint are usually recommended such as: [1][12]

• Swimming
• Walking (avoid downhill terrain)
• Pilates or yoga
• Water aerobics
• Rowing
• Cycling with a stationary bike

It is worth noting that isometric exercises (exercises that activate the muscles without the need to move the joints) can contribute positively to strengthening muscle mass.

In addition, physical therapy that focuses on strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, adductors, and abductors can help improve muscle strength and balance.

A physical therapist can create an exercise plan that focuses on your kneecap and the muscles around it, thereby preventing “misalignment” of the joint.

Chondromalacia patella: what to avoid?

By following some tips, you can reduce your risk of developing Chondromalacia . Specifically:[1][12]

• Avoid repetitive pressure on your kneecaps.
• Avoid exercises that press the kneecap, for example “deep sitting”.
• Wear a knee brace if you strain your knees.
• Achieve muscular balance by strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, abductors and adductors.
• Wear shoe inserts that correct flat feet by increasing the arch of your foot. This will reduce the stress on your knees and can realign the kneecap.
• Finally, excess body weight can put pressure on your knees. Maintaining a healthy body weight can help take pressure off your knees and other joints.

Find at Vita4you.gr a great variety in supplements for joints and pain or inflammation.

References

1. Chondromalacia
2. Knee Pain (Chondromalacia Patella)
3. Chondromalacia Patella
4. Chondromalacia Patella: A common cause of anterior knee pain?
5. Does Glucosamine Work?
6. Chondroitin
7. Top 6 Benefits of Taking Collagen Supplements
8. What Is Hyaluronic Acid and How Does It Help My Joints?
9. 8 Science-Backed Benefits of MSM Supplements
10. Boswellia Serrata, A Potential Antiinflammatory Agent: An Overview
11. Mayo Clinic Q and A: Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties may relieve arthritis pain
12. 5 Exercises to Defeat Chondromalacia Patella (and 3 to Avoid)