Chondromalacia patellae

Common card · No. 258871

Chondromalacia patellae (CMP) is an inflammation of the underside of the kneecap and softening of the cartilage. The cartilage under the kneecap is a natural shock absorber, and overuse, injury, and many other factors can cause increased deterioration and breakdown of the cartilage. The cartilage is no longer smooth and therefore movement and use is very painful. While it often affects young individuals engaged in active sports, it also afflicts older adults who overwork their knees. Chondromalacia patellae is sometimes used synonymously with patellofemoral pain syndrome. However, there is general consensus that patellofemoral pain syndrome applies only to individuals without cartilage damage. This condition is also known as Chondrosis. The term is from Greek μαλακία (malakia) 'softening', χόνδρος (chondros) 'cartilage' and Latin patella 'kneecap'

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