Lateral Release Question

Hi.

I have been dealing with Chondromalacia for the past 3 years but back in November 2009, I finally went to my doc to see what was going on because at the time I didn't know I had Chondromalacia.  If I stood for more than an hour, I just wanted to cry.  It was also like I couldn't bend or straighten my leg without severe pain.  My doc put me through physical therapy 3x a week and then I did the exercises on my own twice a day.  However, the pain has not gotten any better and my doc said he would probably have to go in arthroscopically.  I have read more negative things about lateral release than good.  I'm kind of apprehensive about the surgery.  Could you please maybe enlighten me a little more about lateral release?  Thanks.

[Dr Vinod]

Hello!

Chondromalacia, is anterior knee pain due to irritation of the cartilage on the undersurface of the kneecap. It is also called as patellofemoral syndrome.

Stretching and strengthening the quadriceps and hamstring muscle groups is critical for an effective and lasting rehabilitation of chondromalacia patella.

You can have pain management by NDAIDs, ice packs, change to proper foot wear. You should concentrate on physiotherapy, physical exercises before considering surgeries.

Arthroscopic measures are used for diagnosis of chronic undiagnosed pains so discuss with your surgeon the reason for arthroscopy and if he is considering surgical correction..

Take care!