Hi, thanks for writing to HCM.
Based on the description of symptoms, it seems that you are suffering with Anterior
knee pain, for which the most possible cause in your case could be Chondromalacia
patella (softening of the
cartilage in the knee cap). This condition is usually seen in young adolescent females.
Xrays of the knee cap (special views), MRI scan and a direct arthroscopic examination will help in diagnosing the condition.
Treatment of this condition often begins with simple measures.
-Rest your knee as much as possible. Avoid any activities that increase the pain such as climbing stairs.
- If needed, take over-the-counter pain relievers such as
acetaminophen,
ibuprofen or
naproxen.
- Specific exercises can strengthen the muscles that support your knees and control limb alignment, such as your quadriceps, hamstrings and the muscles around your hips (especially the hip abductors).
- Knee braces or arch supports may help protect your joint and improve the alignment of your kneecap.
- Icing your knee after exercise may be especially helpful.
-
Bracing or taping the patella can help you do exercises and activities with less pain. patella. The idea is that by bracing or taping the knee, the patella stays in better alignment within the femoral groove. This in turn is thought to improve the pull of the quadriceps muscle so that the patella stays lined up in the groove. Patients report less pain and improved function with these forms of treatment.
If your symptoms are not resolving with the above measures, surgery may be indicated.
Hope this information is helpful. Good day