<unk>  (also known as<unk>  is an inflammation of the underside of the<unk> and softening of the cartilage. The cartilage under the kneecap is a natural shock absorber, and overuse, injury, and many other factors can cause increased deterioration and breakdown of the cartilage. The cartilage is no longer smooth and therefore movement and use is very painful. While it often affects young individuals engaged in active sports, it also afflicts older adults who overwork their knees.<unk>  is sometimes used synonymously with patellofemoral pain syndrome. However, there is general consensus that patellofemoral pain syndrome applies only to individuals without cartilage damage. This condition is also known as Chondrosis. The term literally translates to softening (malakia) of cartilage (chondros) behind<unk> in Greek.
Chondromalacia patellae
Patellar tendinitis
Attenuated patella alta
Patellofemoral pain syndrome
Osteochondritis dissecans
Pes anserine bursitis
Retrocalcaneal bursitis
Ischial bursitis