Anterior knee pain

Patellofemoral syndrome; Chondromalacia patella; Runner's knee; Patellar tendinitis; Jumper's knee

Anterior knee pain is pain that occurs at the front and center of the knee. It can be caused by many different problems, including:

  • Chondromalacia of the patella -- the softening and breakdown of the tissue (cartilage) on the underside of the kneecap (patella)
  • Runner's knee -- sometimes called patellar tendinitis
  • Lateral compression syndrome -- the patella tracks more to the outside part of the knee
  • Quadriceps tendinitis -- pain and tenderness at the quadriceps tendon attachment to the patella
  • Patella maltracking -- instability of the patella on the knee
  • Patella arthritis -- cartilage breakdown underneath your kneecap

Causes

Symptoms

Exams and Tests

Treatment

Outlook (Prognosis)

When to Contact a Medical Professional