Treatment is aimed at reducing the frequency and severity of painful episodes and possibly eliminating the symptoms. Treatment One way to reduce the symptoms of chondromalacia is to avoid or modify those activities which aggravate the condition. A specific exercise program stressing quadriceps muscle and hamstring muscle stretching and strengthening often reduces the symptoms dramatically. Icing the knee after aggravating activities and occasional use of aspirin or other anti-inflammatory medication may also be helpful. A patella stabilizing brace maybe beneficial in those individuals in whom patella maltracking is contributing to the condition.
Swimming is generally the most well toler-ated fitness activity.
In choosing a fitness program, one should use pain and swelling as a guide. Other physical therapy techniques include McConnell taping, which helps correct tight lateral structures. Despite a conservative treatment program, a small percentage of patients with chondromalacia will continue to experience significant knee pain and disability. Surgery is sometimes elected in these individuals. These procedures are done arthroscopically although occasionally they require open surgical technique.