Minneapolis Chondromalacia Lawyer
The articular cartilage under the patella is a natural shock absorber. An injury to it may lead to a condition known as chondromalacia patella or patellofemoral pain. People who have suffered a dislocation, fracture, or other knee injury are more likely to get chondromalacia.
Injury to the cartilage of the patella may seem like a minor issue when compared to torn ligaments, muscle damage, or fractures; but healthy cartilage is vital to the knee joint working smoothly and painlessly. When the cartilage is compromised, the joint is compromised.
Chondromalacia Symptoms and Treatment
The main signs and symptoms of chondromalacia are:
- knee stiffness
- dull, aching pain in the front of the knee
- pain when walking up or down stairs
- pain when kneeling or squatting
- pain after sitting for long periods of time
- grating or grinding when knee is extended
Initial treatment of chondromalacia includes:
- take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- rest the knee to reduce pain
- do physical therapy, especially quadriceps strengthening and hamstring stretching
Patella alignment is key to reducing the pain of chondromalacia. If the alignment of the patella cannot be corrected with physical therapy, open or arthroscopic surgery may be recommended. Chondromalacia surgery is fairly successful, but there may be complications, including:
- failure to relieve pain
- increased pain
- infection
Minneapolis Chondromalacia Lawyer
Insurance companies try to dismiss chondromalacia cases, saying they are degenerative / aging injuries rather than damage as a result of an injury sustained in a fall or car crash. If you are suffering from chondromalacia from a negligent accident, you need an experienced chondromalacia lawyer who will aggressively defend your rights. Terry, Slane & Ruohonen know chondromalacia and they have a winning record against insurance companies. Contact a Chondromalacia Lawyer or call 612-362-0000.
