Quick Summary
Pain around the kneecap can improve with a clearer understanding of loading and strength. A cartilage label does not determine how much activity you can regain. Our physiotherapists in New Malden can assess your symptoms and help you choose appropriate next steps for your goals.
Understanding Chondromalacia Patella
Chondromalacia refers to changes in the cartilage on the underside of the kneecap. The term is sometimes used loosely for patellofemoral pain, although pain around the kneecap does not prove cartilage damage. Treatment decisions should relate the diagnosis to your symptoms and function.
Assessment at J&J Therapy
We review what the term means in your case, including any scan or specialist findings, then assess movement and leg strength. Significant recurrent swelling, locking or a new injury needs a different assessment from uncomplicated kneecap pain.
Image: erico / DBCLS, Togo picture gallery · CC BY 4.0. Adapted and annotated.
Do You Experience These Symptoms?
- Aching behind or around the kneecap with stairs or squatting.
- Discomfort after sitting with the knee bent.
- Grinding or clicking, which may also occur without a serious problem.
An assessment helps guide your next step, based on your symptoms, health and goals.
Why symptoms may develop
Kneecap-joint loading, previous injury and individual joint features can contribute. A change in exercise may make symptoms more noticeable. Pain is not a simple measure of cartilage damage, and avoiding all movement can reduce strength and confidence.
Treatment and rehabilitation options
Hands-On Manual Therapy
Gentle mobilisation or treatment to surrounding muscles may be used if it helps you move and exercise more comfortably. Hands-on care cannot regrow kneecap cartilage or guarantee correction of tracking. We explain the purpose and check your comfort and response throughout treatment.
Is Shockwave Suitable?
Shockwave is not a routine treatment for chondromalacia or patellofemoral pain. Exercise, education and individual load management form the main conservative approach. Your physiotherapist can explain the more suitable options and how their effect will be reviewed during your ongoing rehabilitation.
Targeted Exercise Programme
We select tolerable knee-strengthening work and add hip exercise where useful. Squat depth, stairs and training volume are adjusted, then progressed towards your goals. Taping or a footwear trial may be considered as a short-term aid after assessment. Your home plan is adapted as your function and confidence improve.
When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
While most symptoms are not serious, urgent medical attention is required if you experience any of the following:
- Seek urgent GP or NHS 111 advice if you cannot move the knee, bear weight, or straighten a knee that is locked.
- A hot swollen knee with fever or feeling unwell needs urgent medical assessment.
- Go to A&E for a deformed leg after injury or a foot that becomes cold, pale or numb.
Your questions answered
Does grinding mean my knee is wearing away?
Noise alone is not a reliable guide to damage. Pain, swelling, function and your examination provide more useful information.
Is chondromalacia the same as runner’s knee?
The terms are sometimes used together, but chondromalacia describes cartilage changes while runner’s knee commonly refers to patellofemoral pain. We explain the distinction and plan around your symptoms.
Which appointment should I book?
Start with a Physiotherapy Initial Assessment for new, persistent or recurring symptoms. We can assess the problem and agree a plan linked to your daily activities. If you have already had medical care or surgery, bring the relevant instructions.
Soft Tissue Therapy may be a supporting option for associated muscle discomfort once the condition has been assessed. It is not a substitute for diagnosis or the rehabilitation needed for the underlying problem.
Book a Physiotherapy Assessment or call our reception team on 07935 869938. Find J&J Therapy at CI Tower, Ground Floor, New Malden.
Related conditions
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner’s Knee) · Knee Osteoarthritis
Sources and further reading
This page is for general information only and does not replace professional medical advice.
Information updated 15 October 2026. General information only; this page cannot diagnose your symptoms. Treatment is agreed after assessment. For urgent or severe symptoms, use the medical services described above.