Incidence and risk factors

Chondromalacia patella that occurs in adolescents and young adults is thought to be related to overuse, trauma, and/or abnormal forces on the knee. It is more common in females. Many affected adolescents have a mildly abnormal alignment of the kneecap.

Chondromalacia patella may also reflect arthritis of the kneecap, which is usually seen in older individuals.

People who have previously had a dislocation, a fracture, or other trauma to the kneecap may be more likely to get chondromalacia.