Central Ortho & SpineCentral Ortho & Spineest. Istanbul · 1998
Knee Surgery · Istanbul

Treating Patellofemoral Pain & Chondromalacia in Istanbul

Anterior knee pain during stairs, squatting, and prolonged sitting — caused by abnormal patellar tracking and cartilage softening. Highly treatable with targeted rehabilitation.

8,200+
Joint procedures
85%
Resolve with physio
27yr
Orthopaedic experience

Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome

Patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS) is a broad term for anterior knee pain arising from abnormal stress at the patellofemoral joint. Chondromalacia patella refers specifically to softening and degeneration of the patellar cartilage.

Common in runners, cyclists, young women, and office workers. The vast majority improve with structured physiotherapy addressing muscle imbalance and patellar tracking. Surgery is rarely necessary.

Key Facts
  • Most common knee complaint in athletes under 25 and sedentary office workers
  • Pain with stairs, squatting, running, and prolonged sitting ("cinema sign")
  • VMO weakness and hip abductor deficiency are key contributors
  • MRI and arthroscopy grade cartilage damage (Outerbridge I–IV)
Treatment Options

Conservative to Surgical Management

01

Physiotherapy

VMO strengthening, hip abductor/external rotator exercises, patellar taping, and gait retraining — resolves most cases.

02

Orthotics & Bracing

Patellar stabilising brace or foot orthotics correct malalignment — reducing patellofemoral joint stress significantly.

03

Intra-articular Injection

Hyaluronic acid or PRP injection for chondromalacia with significant symptoms — provides 3–6 months of relief.

04

Arthroscopic Procedures

Lateral release, trochleoplasty, or tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTT) for structural malalignment refractory to conservative care.

Why Central Hospital Istanbul

World-class orthopaedic care at a fraction of Western costs

50–70% Cost Saving

JCI-accredited surgery at 30–50% of UK / US prices — without compromising implant quality or surgical standards.

Fast Access

Consultations within 48 hours. Surgery typically scheduled within 1–2 weeks, versus months of waiting in public systems.

26 Specialists

A multidisciplinary team of orthopedic surgeons, spine surgeons, PM&R physicians and physiotherapists under one roof.

47 Countries

We coordinate everything — airport transfers, hotel, interpreter, medical visa letter — so you focus only on recovery.

Your Patient Journey

From first contact to full recovery — we handle every step

01
Day 1 — Free

Online Consultation

Share MRI/X-ray scans and medical history. Our team reviews and responds within 24 hours with a personalised treatment plan and cost estimate.

02
Week 1–2

Travel & Admission

We arrange airport transfer, hotel recommendations, and hospital admission. A dedicated patient coordinator is available throughout.

03
Day 2–7

Surgery & Hospital Stay

Procedure performed by your assigned surgeon. Private room, daily physiotherapy, and nursing care included in the package.

04
Day 3–14

Recovery & Rehabilitation

Robotic physiotherapy and supervised exercise begin early. Discharge criteria are met before your return flight is booked.

05
Ongoing

Remote Follow-up

Video consultations at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 1 year. Your home physician receives a full surgical report.

Ready to take the first step?

Send your MRI or X-rays today. Our team reviews every case within 24 hours — no obligation, no cost.

What happens next
  • Surgeon reviews your scans and sends a written opinion within 24 h
  • You receive a full cost estimate with no hidden fees
  • We arrange travel, hotel and hospital — you focus on getting better