clinical features
Last reviewed 01/2018
The presentation of chondromalacia patellae is with retropatellar pain that is worse on rising from prolonged sitting or when using stairs (especially walking down a flight of stairs).
On examination there may be fluid detectable behind the knee. The posterior surface of the patella can be felt if the patella is pushed sideways, and this is often tender. If the patella is pressed against the femur and then moved then this causes pain. This condition may be accompanied by crepitus.