People who are at risk for developing chondromalacia patella include:
Those who are overweight
People who have had an injury, fracture, or dislocation related to the kneecap
Runners, soccer players, bicyclists, and other people who exercise often
Teenagers and healthy young adults, more often females

Chondromalacia patella often occurs when the undersurface of the kneecap comes in contact with the thigh bone causing swelling and pain. Abnormal knee cap positioning, tightness or weakness of the muscles associated with the knee, too much activity involving the knee, and flat feet may increase the likelihood of chondromalacia patella.

Dull, aching pain that is felt:

• Below the kneecap
• On the sides of the kneecap

A feeling of grinding when the knee is flexed may occur. This can happen:

• Doing knee bends
• Going down stairs
• Running down hill
• Standing up after sitting for awhile

A doctor will perform a physical examination of the knee to determine the cause of pain. If the diagnosis is not clear or symptoms do not improve a doctor may order one of the following:

• Blood tests and/or a standard knee X-ray – This may help to rule out some types of arthritis or inflammation.
• MRI scan- A tests that shows details of the knee joint and can reveal many cases of chondromalacia patella.

The most common way to treat symptoms of chondromalacia patella is to rest the knee. Other ways to treat the symptoms include:
Placing of an ice or cold pack to the area for 15-20 minutes, four times daily, for several days. Do not apply ice directly to the skin. Wrap the ice or cold pack with a towel.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief. Topical pain medication— These include creams or patches that are applied to the skin to help with soft tissue pain.
Prescription pain relievers.

PRP Injections and Pain management injections followed by physical rehab is the ideal line of treatment in severe cases.