Causes of Joint Pain

Chondromalacia patella is a condition resulting from the softening and deterioration of cartilage that lines the underside of the patella, also called the kneecap. This condition develops in adolescents and young adults, especially more common in women. It is a common cause of anterior knee pain. Pain in the front of the knee occurs when you get up after sitting for a long period of time, increases when you climb stairs, and accompanies a grating sensation when you flex your knee. The condition develops because the kneecap does not move properly and rubs against the lower part of the thigh bone.