The Musculoskeletal System

Lesson 1: Disease and Disorders of the Musculoskeletal System
Section III: Specific Musculoskeletal Diseases

1-17

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1-17. CHONDROMALACIA PATELLAE

Chondromalacia refers to an abnormal softening of cartilage. Chondromalacia patellae refers to the rapid erosion and fragmentation of cartilage around the knee. The condition is most common in young men. There may be a momentary "catching" of the knee while climbing stairs. Passive motion is not painful.

a. Signs/Symptoms of Chondromalacia Patellae. Included are the following:

(1) Compression of the patellae (kneecap) is painful.

 

(2) A grating sound is heard when the patella is palpated.

b. Treatment of Chondromalacia Patellae. Rest is the first treatment. Surgery

may be necessary to remove articular cartilage.

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