Understanding Patella Anatomy and Cartilage Health Mitcham & Aspendale Gardens, Victoria
The patella (kneecap) is a small bone that sits over the front of the knee joint and glides along the femoral trochlea as the knee bends. The underside of the patella is lined with hyaline cartilage, allowing smooth motion across the joint.
Chondromalacia patellae occurs when cartilage becomes softened, irritated, or fissured. This is commonly due to overuse, poor biomechanics, or muscle imbalances.
Left untreated, it can lead to more severe conditions, such as retro patellar chondromalacia, osteoarthritis, or full cartilage loss in the knee.
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What Causes Chondromalacia of the Patella?
There are multiple contributing factors behind chondromalacia of the patella, including:
- Patella maltracking or misalignment in the patellofemoral compartment;
- Weakness in the VMO (Vastus Medialis Obliquus) and gluteal muscles;
- Tightness in lateral structures like the IT band or lateral retinaculum;
- Overuse injuries from running, jumping or squatting;
- Anatomical variations such as patella alta, apex of patella changes, or a high Q-angle;
- Trauma, including kneecap injuries, direct impact or prior chipped knee cartilage.
Understanding these factors helps us treat the cause, not just the pain. At Full Speed Performance, we pinpoint what’s driving your symptoms and create a tailored rehab plan to restore alignment, strength, and control.
Common Chondromalacia Patella Symptoms
The most common signs of chondromalacia patella include:
- Pain during or after activity, especially with knee flexion under load;
- Grinding or clicking when moving the knee, known as the patella grinding test;
- Swelling or puffiness around the patella;
- A sensation of weakness or instability when standing, running or jumping;
- Pain during prolonged sitting, known as the "theatre sign";
- Discomfort described as knee pain under the patella or behind the kneecap.
Our clinicians are trained to perform specific tests, including Clarke’s Test and McConnell’s Test, which help isolate the source of pain and confirm chondromalacia patella as the primary diagnosis.
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Veteran Team That Listens
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Symptom Management
We carefully assess and address your specific pain points and discomfort
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Pathology Understanding
We analyse your injury through detailed assessment and imaging when necessary
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Objective Progress Tracking
We measure your improvement week-by-week using advanced testing technology
Book a Consultation with us Today
Stop putting up with chondromalacia patella pain. Start your recovery the right way—with a team that treats the root cause, not just the symptoms.
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Our team at Full Speed Performance has supported everyone from elite athletes to everyday individuals, earning the trust of professional sports teams, orthopaedic specialists, and performance coaches. We deliver the same high-quality care to every client, whether you're aiming for peak performance or simply want to move pain-free.
FAQ
Chondromalacia patella involves damage or softening of the cartilage under the kneecap. Unlike general knee pain, it’s usually activity-related and felt specifically under or behind the patella, often worsening with stairs, squatting, or sitting.
Common signs include kneecap pain during movement, grinding or clicking sensations, swelling, and discomfort after sitting for long periods. We confirm diagnosis through clinical tests like Clarke’s and McConnell’s, along with movement assessments and imaging if needed.
Yes. Most cases respond well to structured physiotherapy. Our rehab focuses on correcting patella tracking, reducing inflammation, and restoring strength and control around the knee to relieve symptoms and prevent future cartilage damage.
Recovery time varies depending on the severity, but many clients see improvement within 6–12 weeks with consistent rehab. More advanced cases may take longer, especially if cartilage damage is significant.
We provide personalised rehab plans that include manual therapy, taping, targeted strengthening, biomechanical correction, and advanced diagnostics — all guided by our expert team and supported by VALD performance testing.

