Does your knee hurt when you go down the stairs?
Do you feel pain behind the kneecap when squatting, standing up from a chair, or after sitting for a long time?
Do you experience discomfort while running, working out, or playing sports?
One of the common causes of these symptoms is chondromalacia of the patella—a condition that affects the cartilage behind the kneecap.
Many patients receive this diagnosis after an MRI and begin to worry:
- Is my knee worn out?
- Will surgery be necessary?
- Can I exercise?
- Will the pain go away?
- What treatment is effective?
The good news is that in most cases, symptoms can improve significantly through proper rehabilitation and management of physical activity.
В Center for Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation – OFFICETHERAPY We don’t just look at the X-ray or the diagnosis. Our goal is to identify the causes of the strain, manage the pain, and guide you through the entire recovery process—from the first symptoms to your return to an active lifestyle.
Do you recognize yourself?
Many patients with chondromalacia describe:
✓ My knee hurts when I go down the stairs;
✓ I feel pain behind my earlobe;
✓ My knee hurts when I squat;
✓ I have pain after sitting for a long time;
✓ I experience discomfort when getting up from a chair;
✓ The knee pops or clicks;
✓ I can't work out like I used to;
✓ I avoid certain movements because of the pain.
If you recognize several of these symptoms in yourself, the cause may be related to chondromalacia of the patella
What is chondromalacia of the patella?
Chondromalacia is a change in the cartilage on the back of the patella.
This area is subjected to heavy loads when:
- going down stairs;
- squats;
- running;
- jumping;
- sports;
- prolonged sitting with bent knees.
When the strain on the joint becomes excessive or prolonged, pain, irritation, and limited range of motion may occur.
Why does it happen?
For many patients, there is no single specific cause.
Most often, the problem develops as a result of a combination of:
- sports-related overuse;
- muscle imbalance;
- weakness in the hip muscles;
- reduced pelvic stability;
- changes in the movement of the cap;
- previous injuries;
- prolonged immobility;
- a sharp increase in the load.
That is why two different knees with the same diagnosis often require different approaches.
Why does it hurt when going down stairs?
This is one of the most characteristic symptoms.
When descending stairs, the load between the patella and the femur increases significantly.
In that case, the following may occur:
- pain behind the earlobe;
- a feeling of pressure;
- discomfort;
- instability;
- a popping or clicking sound.
Similar symptoms often occur when squatting or standing up from a low chair.
Is chondromalacia dangerous?
Many patients hear:
- „The cartilage is worn out.“
- „There's nothing to be done.“
- „You need to stop playing sports.“
In fact, the diagnosis alone does not mean that the knee is severely damaged or that surgery is unavoidable.
More importantly:
- to determine the cause of the overload;
- to manage the pain;
- to improve its function;
- to restore traffic;
- to reduce the strain on the joint.
Should you stop playing sports?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions.
In many cases, it is not necessary to completely stop physical activity.
It is more often necessary to:
- load adjustment;
- temporary change to the training schedule;
- improving strength;
- restoring traffic control;
- A gradual return to sports.
Our goal is not to restrict movement, but to help the patient resume it safely.
What does rehabilitation involve?
В Center for Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation – OFFICETHERAPY We don't just treat the pain.
We are developing a comprehensive recovery plan that consists of several stages:
- Pain Management
Initially, the goal is to reduce irritation and strain on the knee.
- Improving Traffic Flow
Work is being done on mobility, the movement of the cap, and joint function.
- Restoring Strength
This exercise strengthens the hip muscles, the pelvis, and the stabilizing muscles.
- Return to Activity
Daily exercise, sports, and favorite activities are gradually incorporated.
Apparatus Physiotherapy
In certain cases, the following may be included:
- high-energy laser;
- TECAR therapy;
- electrotherapy;
- magnetic therapy;
- ultrasound therapy.
Their purpose is to help manage pain and support the healing process.
Kinesitherapy
Properly selected exercises are one of the most important parts of recovery.
The programme may include:
- exercises for the hip muscles;
- pelvic exercises;
- stabilization;
- balance;
- mobility;
- traffic control;
- functional exercises.
How do we work at OFFICETHERAPY?
В Center for Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation – OFFICETHERAPY We examine not only the knee, but the entire kinetic chain.
During the assessment, we analyze:
- mobility;
- strength;
- stability;
- the movement of the cap;
- gait;
- movement technique;
- physical activity;
- daily activities.
We then develop a personalized recovery plan.
Our goal is not simply to relieve the pain for a few days.
We guide the patient through the entire process:
✓ pain management;
✓ restoration of traffic;
✓ improving strength;
✓ Return to daily activities;
✓ A safe return to sports and an active lifestyle.
When to seek a specialist?
It's a good idea to do an assessment if:
- the pain lasts longer than a few weeks;
- you avoid the stairs;
- My knee hurts when I squat;
- sports are getting tough;
- the symptoms recur;
- You limit your movements.
Early assessment often leads to a faster recovery and prevents the problem from becoming chronic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can chondromalacia improve?
Yes. In many cases, symptoms are significantly reduced through proper rehabilitation.
Do I need surgery?
For a large proportion of patients, conservative treatment yields good results.
Is it dangerous to exercise?
Not always. The level of exertion should be tailored to the symptoms and the stage of recovery.
How long does the recovery last?
This depends on the severity of the problem, the workload, and the regularity of the therapy
Schedule a consultation for chondromalacia of the patella
If the pain behind your ear is starting to affect your daily life, you’re avoiding stairs, or you’ve stopped exercising, you don’t have to go through the recovery process alone.
В Center for Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation – OFFICETHERAPY We'll help you through the entire process—from managing your pain to safely returning to an active lifestyle and sports.
Phone: 0898 636 762
📍Address: gr. Sofia, Lozenets, Str. Flower Garden 77-79
You can easily book an appointment online or yes Describe the problem Please contact us using the contact form below, and our team will get in touch with you and guide you toward the most suitable recovery plan.
