Straight leg lifts can help strengthen the quadriceps muscles and improve chondromalacia of the knee. This can be performed with or without 2-5 lb. ankle weights.

Another useful exercise can be performed by placing a towel between the knees and squeezing the knees together for several seconds. This will build up the medial (inner) aspect of the quadriceps muscle and restore a more normal relationship between the patella (kneecap) and the knee joint.

These exercises, when repeated daily, can dramatically lessen the symptoms of chondromalacia patella. Avoiding stair and hill climbing will also decrease the progression of knee damage.