Does physiotherapy treat chondromalacia patellae?

Chondromalacia patellae involves irritation or softening of cartilage beneath the kneecap. Pain may appear with stairs, squatting, kneeling or sitting with the knee bent for a long time. A physiotherapist assesses hip, thigh and knee control, then selects exercises that match your current tolerance. Treatment may include quadriceps and hip strengthening, gentle mobility work, advice on pacing, and changes to activities that repeatedly load the front of the knee. The aim is to make movement more comfortable and improve how the leg shares force; it does not rebuild cartilage directly.

Attend an assessment if front-of-knee pain keeps returning or limits exercise. Follow the prescribed exercise plan gradually, and note which movements increase symptoms during or after activity. Temporary changes such as reducing deep squats, using a shorter stair session, or choosing lower-impact exercise can help keep you active while strength develops. Do not push through sharp pain or rapidly increase training. A clinician can also check footwear, movement technique and other possible causes of knee pain. Learn more about [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) and [Chondromalacia Patellae](/conditions/chondromalacia-patellae/).

Seek prompt medical assessment after a significant injury, sudden swelling, inability to bear weight, a knee that locks, or a feeling that it has given way repeatedly. Arrange a review if pain is worsening, interferes with sleep, or does not settle with sensible activity changes. Fever, marked warmth, redness, or feeling generally unwell alongside knee pain needs urgent attention.

Ask whether your symptoms fit chondromalacia patellae or another knee problem, which activities should be modified, and how to judge a safe increase in exercise. You can also ask how progress will be measured and when imaging or another specialist opinion would be useful.