If you suffer from a dull, aching pain behind your kneecap, misalignment may be to blame. And if misalignment is the problem, it may only get worse without treatment. At Kosak Chiropractic in Fairfield, we provide patients with complementary, noninvasive treatments to help them resolve issues related to musculoskeletal disorders. Chondromalacia, also known as runner’s knee, is one of the most common joint alignment problems, and it can have consequences for the rest of the body.
Chondromalacia is a condition that results from erosion of the cartilage the kneecap floats on top of. The kneecap is a sesamoid bone, which means it floats freely from the rest of the skeleton. It’s movements are restricted by the tendons and ligaments that strap it down and brace it, but those connective tissues can become frayed. When they do, the kneecap rubs against the cartilage and the thighbone, causing inflammation and soreness. The pain is usually worse when the knee has been under pressure for an extended period. The knee may also buckle or catch and may sometimes creak.
Runner’s knee is a common alternative name for chondromalacia because it often develops as an overuse injury in young athletes. However, older people are also at risk for developing it, particularly if the knee has previously been injured. We’ll treat chondromalacia by stabilizing the knee and letting it rest in between physical therapy. Building up the strength of the leg muscles will make the kneecap less likely to slip out of place in the future. Strength-training exercises may include use of a stationary bicycle, which will relieve it from having to bear weight. Wearing shoes with better arch support will also reduce the burden on the kneecap, and if avoiding the use of a painful knee has caused a patient to develop misalignments in their pelvis and lower back, we can provide adjustments for those, too.
Kosak Chiropractic is located at 1252 Travis Blvd., Suite G, Fairfield, CA, 94533. To schedule an appointment, visit Kosak Chiropractic online or call 707-426-1111.