Name of the Condition

• Chondromalacia Patella, Left Knee
• Also known as "Runner's Knee" or "Patellofemoral Syndrome"

Summary

Chondromalacia of the left knee refers to the softening and deterioration of the cartilage on the underside of the kneecap. This condition often results in knee pain and discomfort, particularly when engaging in activities that put stress on the knee joint.

Causes

• Overuse or repetitive stress on the knee joint, common in athletes.
• Direct trauma or injury to the kneecap.
• Abnormal alignment of the knee joint or imbalanced muscles around the knee.

Risk Factors

• Age: More common in adolescents and young adults.
• Gender: Women are more likely to develop this condition.
• Certain sports: Activities requiring repeated knee stress, such as running or cycling.
• Previous knee injuries or surgeries.

Symptoms

• Dull, aching pain around the front of the knee.
• Pain increases with activities like kneeling, squatting, or climbing stairs.
• A grating or grinding sensation when extending the knee.

Diagnosis

• Physical examination focusing on knee movement and alignment.
• Imaging tests like MRI or X-rays to assess cartilage condition.
• Arthroscopy in rare cases to directly view the knee joint.

Treatment Options

• Rest and avoidance of activities that aggravate the knee.
• Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the knee.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief.
• In severe cases, surgical options like arthroscopic surgery.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• With proper treatment, individuals can often return to normal activities.
• Long-term follow-up might be necessary to monitor knee health.
• Symptoms may recur if the underlying causes are not addressed.

Complications

• Chronic pain or discomfort.
• Progressive cartilage damage could lead to knee osteoarthritis if untreated.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Regular low-impact exercises like swimming to maintain strength without undue stress.
• Using proper techniques and equipment during sports.
• Maintaining a healthy weight to reduce stress on the knees.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Persistent knee pain or swelling that doesn’t improve with rest.
• Difficulty performing daily activities due to knee discomfort.
• Noticeable knee instability or inability to bear weight.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS)
• Arthritis Foundation
• Physical therapy clinics specializing in sports medicine

Tips for Medical Coders

• Double-check the laterality of the condition (left knee in this case) to ensure correct coding.
• Ensure the ICD code M94.262 is used specifically for the left knee to avoid errors in the patient’s medical record.