What is it?

Chondromalacia patella is a degeneration of the cartilage located on the underside of the patella caused by excessive compressive forces or by improper patella tracking.  

Causes:

• As the knee flexes and extends, the patella glides inferiorly and superiorly. If the patella is not tracking correctly, the cartilage will degenerate as it is irritated by the medial femoral condyle.
• Weakness in the medial aspect of the quadriceps muscle.
• A large or small Q angle
• Excessive pronation alters tibial rotation, affecting tracking of the patella.