n. softening, inflammation, and degeneration of cartilage at a joint. Chondromalacia patellae is the most common kind, affecting the undersurface of the kneecap; it results in pain in the front of the knee and grating (*crepitus), which is made worse by kneeling, squatting, and climbing stairs. Treatment includes physiotherapy, ice packs, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), weight loss, and avoidance of aggravating factors, such as running and jumping.
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