Chondromalacia patella is a condition characterized by the deterioration of cartilage under the kneecap, causing pain and swelling. It is one of the common problems affecting people of all ages, especially young athletes, women, and older adults.
Conventional treatments for this condition include rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and surgery in severe cases. However, some people aren’t relieved from these treatments and seek other effective alternatives to alleviate their pain.
These alternative treatments include non-surgical options for chondromalacia patella, such as acupuncture, massage, and chiropractic care. Let’s discuss these alternative treatments in detail below to understand them better.
Alternative Treatments for Chondromalacia Patella
Chondromalacia Patella is treated with other treatments that might not involve conventional healthcare practices or complications. Below are some of these chondromalacia patella treatments you can follow:
Physical Therapy
- Strengthening Exercises
Physical therapy can include exercises that strengthen the knee joint muscles. Strong muscles can help support the knee joint, which reduces additional pressure on the kneecap to ease pain and discomfort. You can perform leg presses, squats, and lunges to strengthen your knee joints.
- Range-of-Motion Exercises
Usually, performing range-of-motion exercises help improve the flexibility and mobility of the knee joint. For instance, range-of-motion exercises like knee bends and stretches can benefit your knees.
- Taping Techniques
Some physiotherapists may use taping techniques to help support the kneecap and improve joint alignment. The tape can evenly distribute the pressure, reducing the pain and discomfort in the knee joint.
- Joint Mobilization
Physical therapists can also use joint mobilization techniques to facilitate better joint movement and reduce pain. These techniques involve the therapist gently moving the knee joint to improve its range of motion.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient medical procedure that involves inserting thin needles into specific body areas. Some studies have suggested that acupuncture may help relieve pain and improve body functions in people suffering from chondromalacia patella. While the evidence is limited, acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed under the proper guidance of a medical practitioner.
Herbal Remedies
- Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice used in Indian cuisine with anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric supplements may help reduce pain and inflammation in people with chondromalacia patella.
- Ginger
Ginger is another spice with anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in people with chondromalacia patella.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care involves spinal manipulation to improve alignment and function. The practice is based on the belief that proper alignment can help the body’s healing process.
According to a study, chiropractic care may help relieve pain and improve function in people with chondromalacia patella. Chiropractic care is considered safe when performed by a qualified practitioner and is a good alternative for chondromalacia treatment.
Mind-body Therapies
- Meditation
Meditation is an effective technique that helps focus on a particular object, thought, or activity to achieve and maintain a relaxed state with mental clarity. Meditation may help reduce pain and improve function in people with chondromalacia patella.
- Yoga
Yoga is a mind-body practice combining physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation. Practicing yoga may help reduce pain and improve function in people with chondromalacia patella. Additionally, yoga poses can also help strengthen the muscles around the knee joint.
- Biofeedback
Biofeedback is a technique that emphasizes using electronic devices to monitor and provide feedback about specific bodily functions, such as muscle tension or heart rate. Biofeedback may help reduce pain and improve function in people with chondromalacia patella.
Precautions and Potential Risks Associated With Alternative Treatments
Now that we have discussed alternative treatments to deal with chondromalacia patella relief, it’s equally essential to understand the precautions and potential risks of adopting them. Below are some things to consider before going ahead with these treatments.
- Side Effects of Herbal Remedies
While herbal remedies like turmeric and ginger are generally considered safe, they can have side effects and may interact with other medications. For instance, turmeric can increase the risk of bleeding. Ginger can also increase the risk of bleeding and may interact with medications that lower blood sugar levels.
- Risks Associated With Undergoing Acupuncture Treatments
Acupuncture is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified practitioner. However, there are certain risks associated with this practice. These risks include complications such as pain, bleeding, bruising, and infection at the needle insertion site.
Organs also suffer injuries if needles are not inserted properly. That’s why you must ensure you are undergoing treatment with a licensed practitioner and following appropriate safety procedures.
- Potential Risks Associated With Chiropractic Care
While chiropractic care is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified practitioner, some risks are associated with the practice. These include temporary soreness, stiffness, or pain in the treated area. In some cases, chiropractic adjustments can also result in a herniated disc or worsen an existing injury. As a result, undergoing treatment from a verified health practitioner is essential.
Conclusion
Alternative treatments are as effective as normal treatments. However, you must consult a healthcare provider before trying these treatments for chondromalacia patella relief. While some alternative treatments may provide relief, they can also cause unwanted health complications.
Additionally, healthcare providers can help identify underlying causes of chondromalacia patella, such as misalignment or muscle imbalances, which may require conventional treatments.
While some alternative treatments have shown promising results in small studies, more research is needed to establish their efficacy and safety. Future research should focus on large, well-designed clinical trials to assess the effectiveness of alternative treatments in relieving chondromalacia patella symptoms.
Additionally, research should investigate the underlying mechanisms by which alternative treatments work to provide relief, which may inform the development of new treatments for the condition.