Chondromalacia of the Patella Wheeless

Description: - chondromalacia describes softening & fissuring of articular hyaline cartilage;
- chondromalacia may result from an excessive load on patellofemoral joint, but disuse may be a contributing factor;
- most common in young women;
- relationship between chondrosis & subsequent arthrosis is unclear;
- contributing factors:
- weakness and tightness of quadriceps muscle;
- genu valgum;
- increased Q angle
- patella alta